Beijing, February 18th—Lu Kang, Vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with Hugh Jeffrey, Deputy Secretary at the Australian Department of Defence. Scott Dewar, Australian Ambassador to China, was present. 

Lu said, at present, China-Australia relations have entered an important period of further development on the basis of stability. The Chinese side is willing to work with the Australian side to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, deepen cooperation in various fields, strengthen communication on international and regional affairs, properly handle disputes and differences, promote the development of China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, and safeguard peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region. 

Jeffrey said, the improvement of Australia-China relations is in the common interests of both countries. The Australian side admires China's development achievements and attaches importance to the Chinese side's important role in maintaining international and regional peace and stability. Under the current situation, Australia is willing to further strengthen economic and trade ties with the Chinese side, intensify dialogue and communication, and promote regional stability and development.