Chinese President Hu Jintao said in Beijing Monday during a meeting with visiting Australian Prime Minister John Howard that China hopes to work with Australia for the stable growth of full cooperative relations between the two countries in the new century.

Hu said that to realize common development through strengthening cooperation between China and Australia will serve the fundamental interests of both countries and their peoples. It will also be good for the peace, stability, development and prosperity of the region, Hu said.

"Under the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, seeking common ground while reserving differences, and common development, China is ready to work with Australia for the steady growth of full cooperative relations between the two countries," Hu said.

There is still great potential for cooperation under the current situation of an accelerated globalized world economy and regional cooperation, said the Chinese president.

China and Australia have maintained full diplomatic relations for more than 30 years. Hu noted that the political dialogue between the two sides has increased mutual understanding and trust.

In addition, China and Australia have become important partners of trade and investment, and they have kept constant exchanges over regional and international issues.

Howard agreed with Hu regarding bilateral relations. The prime minister said the two countries witnessed a smooth growth of bilateral relations because they have respected each other and sought common ground while reserving differences.

Howard said Australia appreciated China's constructive role in regional and international issues.

He stressed that Australia will work with China, and maintain the good momentum of relations through increasing exchanges of personnel and strengthening trade and economic cooperation.

Hu and Howard also exchanged views on the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, the Middle East situation and global anti-terrorism.

(Xinhua News Agency  August 19, 2003)