Beijing, October 9th—Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with David Carter, former Speaker of the New Zealand Parliament and Honorary Chairman of the New Zealand China Friendship Society.

Liu appreciated Carter's long-term commitment to promoting China-New Zealand friendship, and said China and New Zealand are important partners to each other. The CPC is willing to conduct political dialogue with major political parties in New Zealand, deepen mutual understanding, and jointly discuss ways for friendly cooperation between the two countries. Liu introduced the current economic and social development of China.

Carter said, the people of New Zealand and China have maintained long-term friendly exchanges. Cooperation between the two countries is in the interests of the people. Both sides should particularly strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges, especially youth exchanges.