We can all move forward through respect, cooperation and trade

Let me begin by expressing, on behalf of the Chinese government and people, my best wishes to you and, through you, to the courageous and hard-working Australian people.

Though located in different hemispheres and separated by high seas, the people of China and Australia enjoy a friendly exchange that dates back centuries.

The Chinese people have all along cherished amicable feelings about the Australian people.

Back in the 1420s, the expeditionary fleets of China's Ming Dynasty reached Australian shores.

For centuries, the Chinese sailed across vast seas and settled down in what they called Southern Land, or today's Australia.

They brought Chinese culture to this land and lived harmoniously with the local people, contributing their proud share to Australia's economy, society and its thriving pluralistic culture.

More than three decades have passed since China and Australia established diplomatic relations.

The bilateral ties have stood the tests of time and international vicissitudes, and made steady headway.

To consolidate and develop its all-round cooperation with Australia is a key component of China's external relations.

We have always viewed our friendly ties with Australia from a strategic and long-term perspective.

To cultivate deeper and all-round cooperation between the two countries is the common aspiration of the two governments and peoples.

During my visit I will have an in-depth exchange of views with Prime Minister Howard on bilateral ties and the regional and international issues of mutual interest.