(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-12-21 16:08

CANBERRA -- Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd spoke highly of relations with China, describing the nation as an "important friend and partner."

He made the remarks in a joint statement with Foreign Minister Stephen Smith to mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations with China on Friday.

Rudd and Smith, whose Labor Party won the general election four weeks ago, said the two economies are complementary to each other, while the bilateral relationship has developed remarkably.

China is now Australia's second-largest trading partner, with the two-way trade and investment increasing rapidly.

"People-to-people links continue to flourish between our countries and there are opportunities to promote even closer ties in areas such as sport, arts and culture, and science and technology," they said.

They pointed out that "Our relationship is based on mutual respect and understanding, as well as many shared interests."

"We have established a comprehensive range of regular and useful dialogues on political, security, economic and trade, consular and human rights issues," they said.

"Our countries will continue to work together closely and productively in regional and international forums to advance our common interest in a more stable and prosperous world," they said.