(12 March 2013 Canberra)
Dear Friends,
Welcome to the Chinese Embassy.
It is a pleasure for me to have this opportunity to exchange views with you on China-Australia economic relations, a subject of our shared interest.
It is 40 years since China and Australia established diplomatic relations.
Over the past four decades, our business relations have withstood the test of financial crises and demonstrated strong vitality.
Last year, our two-way trade volume set a new record of 122.3 billion US dollars.
I believe to achieve the long-term, stable and sustainable development of our business relations, it is essential we do the following:
First, build a diversified cooperation framework.
As China's urbanization process deepens, its import of energy and mineral resources will continue.
But this is not all our economic relationship is about.
And our cooperation has gone far beyond the simple commodity trade.
To ensure the sustainable development of our economic relations, we need to step up mutually beneficial cooperation in such fields as energy conservation, environmental protection, infrastructure, financial services, agriculture, animal husbandry, investment, research and development, and personnel training, and put in place a comprehensive, diversified and multi-dimensional cooperation framework.
Second, build a sound cooperation environment.
We need to take positive and credible measures to eliminate trade and investment barriers, such as simplifying review procedures and reducing access restrictions, to create a fair and non-discriminatory investment environment and convenient conditions for businesses.
As the Chinese saying goes, "do not fear going slow, only fear standing still".
Facts have proven that with enterprise and patience, good progress can be made either in negotiation or cooperation.
Businesses should know better and respect each other country's national conditions, systems and investment environment, and increase communication with local governments and people of all walks of life.
They should also abide by local laws and regulations, service and make themselves part of the local communities.
Third, advance our comprehensive partnership.
Our business links have strengthened in the context of the all-round development of bilateral relations.
The maturing political ties have provided a strong guarantee for deepening economic ties.
For Australia, China is not only the biggest trading partner, but also a partner for comprehensive cooperation.
To know better each other's development orientation, strategic intention and policies and make objective and accurate judgment is the basis for continued growth of this comprehensive cooperative relationship.
Dear Friends,
March 12th is China's Tree Planting Day.
As the Chinese saying goes, "one generation plants the trees, the next generation rests in their shade".
While enjoying the fruits of the 40 years' development of China-Australia relations, we will not forget the contributions made by our forerunners and all the friends present tonight.
The future of China-Australia relations lies in our efforts today.
Let's bear in mind the above three essentials and work together to promote the long-term, stable and sustainable development of China-Australia relations so as to lay a solid foundation for a brighter future of the younger generations.