China, New Zealand to Enhance CooperationChinese State Councilor Wu Yi met with visiting New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark here Friday, saying that the frequent exchange of high-level visits between the two countries will inject new vigor into bilateral ties.The exchange of visits will also consolidate Sino-New Zealand friendship and cooperation, she said. Wu said the Chinese government values the friendly cooperative relations with New Zealand and considers Clark's China visit an important opportunity to cement such relations. China "should and hopes to become a member of the World Trade Organization at an early date," said Wu. She recalled that New Zealand was the first WTO member to reach a bilateral deal with China on its accession, and expressed thanks to the New Zealand government in this regard. Clark said her visit to China has been very enjoyable, and the fruitful talks with Premier Zhu Rongji Thursday will be conducive to the development of bilateral cooperation. Clark reiterated New Zealand's support for China's early entry into the WTO, expressing the belief that China's WTO entry at an early date would benefit the trade partners. Wu also exchanged views with Clark's entourage on some concrete issues in bilateral trade and economic cooperation. Earlier Friday, Clark and her delegation visited the former residence of Rewi Alley, a celebrated New Zealand writer, educator, social activist as well as an long-time friend of China. |
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