Hu Jintao addresses Australian parliament

cctv.com 10-25-2003 09:09

On Friday, China and Australia signed a trade and economic framework agreement, with Chinese President Hu Jintao expressing China's wish to further develop economic and trade ties.

Before the signing, Hu Jintao addressed the Australian Parliament. In his speech, the President underlined China's commitment to strengthening and developing all-round cooperation with Australia. He also expressed his hope for lasting peace and common prosperity in the world.

President Hu, together with Australian Prime Minister John Howard, attended the signing ceremony, and told reporters during the presser afterwards that China wants to forge a long-term and stable cooperation in areas of energy and resource development.

After a brief review of the diplomatic relations between China and Australia, President Hu stressed that both governments and peoples wish to cultivate deeper and broader cooperation and this is also an important policy of the Chinese government.

"We are ready to be Australia's long term partners, dedicated to closer cooperation based on equality and mutual benefit. Today, a trade and economic framework between China and Australia will be signed and it will mark the beginning of a brand new stage in our relationship," said Hu Jintao.

President Hu Jintao underscored the significance of the smooth conduct of state-to-state relations and bilateral and multilateral cooperation in ensuring a peaceful and prosperous world.

"The affairs of the world should be handled through consultation, with an equal standing given to all countries. Members of the international community should reaffirm their commitment to multilateralism and give full support to the important role that the United Nations and the Security Council play in maintaining world peace," said Hu Jintao.

Hu Jintao said he will have an in-depth discussion with Australian Prime Minister John Winston Howard on topics ranging from bilateral ties to regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Editor:Han  Source:CCTV.com