The Chinese government is willing to strengthen judicial exchanges and cooperation with Australia, said a senior official here on Monday.

Chinese State Councilor Zhou Yongkang made the remarks when meeting with visiting Australian Attorney-General Philip Ruddock. They exchanged views on legal and judicial cooperation and Zhou outlined China's efforts in legal system building.

Zhou said the Chinese government put great importance on governance according to the rule of law and had started the fifth five-year plan with a public awareness campaign on the law.

Ruddock said Australia would continue to strengthen legal and judicial exchanges and cooperation with China.

China and Australia signed a judicial assistance treaty on criminal matters during Premier Wen Jiabao's official visit to Australia in April.