The Chinese and Australian government and leaders are devoted to cooperation between the two countries, which guarantees the healthy development of bilateral relations.

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, made the remark when meeting with Australian Governor-General Michael Jeffery in Beijing on Tuesday.

Australia regards China's development as an opportunity, and adheres to the one-China policy, which enhanced the political foundation for bilateral cooperation, Wu said.

The Australian people's enthusiasm on boosting Sino-Australian relations provides a solid social basis for the bilateral relations, he said.

The development of Sino-Australian friendly cooperation serves the interest of the two countries and their people, and China attaches great importance to the all-round cooperation with Australia on the basis of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, he said.

The two countries are supplementary in economy and trade, said Wu, expressing hope to enhance energy cooperation with Australia.

The two legislatures have kept good relations and close contact, he said, voicing the hope that the exchanges between the two legislatures will be enhanced.

Jeffery said the Australian people regard China as a long-term friend and cooperative partner, and Australia wishes to enhance cooperation with China in the framework of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), East Asian Summit, ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Regional Forum and the UN.

He said his visit is to boost bilateral relations, talks on Australian-Sino free trade area and energy cooperation. He also said he is confident about the prospect of Australian-Sino relations.

Jeffery arrived in Beijing Saturday to continue his 10-day state visit to China as guest of President Hu Jintao. Besides Beijing, Jeffery also traveled to Shanghai and Xi'an during his China tour.

(Xinhua News Agency October 19, 2005)