Chinese, Canadian FMs pledge to enhance bilateral cooperation

BEIJING, May 11 -- Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks with his Canadian counterpart Lawrence Cannon here on Monday to discuss relations between their two countries and major international issues of common concern.

Yang said China and Canada, being important nations of the Asia-Pacific region, shared broad interests in developing domestic economies and promoting regional peace, stability and development.

The two countries have maintained high-level exchanges and achieved positive progresses in the cooperation of economy and trade, culture, education, technology, health and environment protection since last year, Yang said.

"We also maintained close communication and coordination on major international and regional issues of common concern," he added.

Yang said China would deepen practical cooperation with Canada and properly handle sensitive issues between the two nations.

Cannon said Canada paid great attention to bilateral ties and adhered to the one-China policy, adding Canada appreciated China's positive role in the international affairs.

Canada would make joint efforts with China to promote cooperation in economy, trade, public health and environmental protection and enhance coordination on global issues in a bid to cement and advance bilateral ties, Cannon said.

Cannon arrived in Beijing on Saturday for an official visit at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi.