Jiang expressed the belief that bilateral friendly cooperative relations score steady development, so long as both sides handle the ties on the basis of mutual respect and benefit, equal consultation, as well as seeking common ground while preserving differences.

Extending warm welcome to Chretien, who was described as an old friend of the Chinese people, Jiang spoke highly of his precious contribution to Sino-Canadian relations.

In recent years, the two leaders had met several times on many occasions, Jiang said, citing the warm reception granted to him by Chretien during his l997 Canada tour.

The ongoing visit by Chretien at the beginning of the new century signals another year of bumper harvest for the China- Canada relations, and serves to further the overall partnership of the two nations in the new century, Jiang stressed.

Noting the fruitful talks between Chretien and his Chinese counterpart Zhu Rongji, Jiang said both sides have achieved extensive consensus on expanding cooperation in various fields.

Since the two countries established diplomatic ties, he said, bilateral relations in various fields have scored remarkable progress, adding in recent years this relationship has kept a momentum of fast development. Jiang said that both sides have frequented exchange of high- level visits, strengthened their political consultations and maintained good cooperation on some major international and regional issues.

Bilateral economic and trade relations have also developed in a fast pace, with the trade volume increasing by a large margin and cooperation fields continuing to expand, he said.

Cooperation in fields of science, technology, education, culture, energy resources and environmental protection is being further deepened, the Chinese president added.

Chretien said he is very happy about visiting China again and meeting with Jiang for the 11th time.

In the past 30 years since the two countries forged diplomatic ties, he said, bilateral relationship has achieved an overall development, with which Canada is satisfied.

Noting that he is heading a very large delegation, including some governors and over 500 entrepreneurs, he said his ongoing visit is proceeding in a smooth way and the two sides have signed many important agreements on investment and cooperation.

The prime minister said he is convinced that the visit would help give a big push to bilateral cooperation.

During the meeting, Jiang also briefed Chretien on China's circumstances and its viewpoints on the international situation. He asked the prime minister to pass on his best wishes to Canadian Governor-General Adrienne Clarkson.

This is Chretien's fourth China tour since he became prime minister. He arrived here Saturday for a 9-day official visit accompanied by an entourage of 600-strong people, the largest mission ever sent by Canada to a foreign country in its diplomatic history.

Bilateral trade in 2000 reached almost US$7 billion, up 45 percent year-on-year.

(Xinhua 02/13/2001)