Chinese, Canadian FMs hold talks on cooperation

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) holds talks with his Canadian counterpart John Baird in Beijing, capital of China, July 4, 2013. (Xinhua/Xie Huanchi)

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his Canadian counterpart John Baird on Thursday, according to a Foreign Ministry press release.

Wang said China attaches great importance to China-Canada relations and is willing to make joint efforts with Canada to constantly enrich their bilateral strategic partnership, noting that bilateral ties have developed significantly in recent years.

China is ready to enhance exchanges and cooperation with Canada in various areas as well as deepen bilateral communication and coordination on major international and regional affairs from a strategic and long-term perspective, Wang said.

Comprehensively deepening Canada-China relations is a priority of Canadian foreign policy, Baird said, stressing that Canada is ready to work with China to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, energy, resources, culture, education and other fields.

The Canadian government will adhere to the one-China principle, Baird said.