China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (pictured right) said on Wednesday that Beijing and Canberra "have neither historical grievances nor fundamental conflicts of interest" and that China does not want to see setbacks such as those that hurt bilateral relations in recent years.
Speaking to Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong (pictured left) in Beijing on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two sides, China's top diplomat noted that cooperation with Canberra brought "tangible benefits" to both countries and their peoples.
The comprehensive strategic partnership serves to "promote peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region and the world," Wang stated, pointing out that Beijing appreciates the willingness of the Australian and New Zealand governments to improve and develop relations, especially since Chinese President Xi Jinping and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held a "constructive meeting" in Indonesia last month.
