Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang (R) meets with former Australian Prime Minister Robert Hawke in Beijing, China, July 24, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

China attached great importance to ties with Australia, Vice Premier Zhang Dejiang said in Beijing during a meeting with the country's ex-Prime Minister Bob Hawke.

Zhang said China was ready to work with Australia to view and develop the relationship from the strategic perspective, enhance dialogue and communication, and boost mutual trust and cooperation.

He said China would make joint efforts with Australia to promote the long-term and sound development of the relations of all-round cooperation.

Zhang also hoped Hawke would continue to make positive efforts for the Sino-Australian friendly cooperation.

Hawke said he would make new contributions to the development of the China-Australia relations and wished the Beijing Olympic Games a complete success.

(Xinhua News Agency July 25, 2008)