Foreign and Military Affairs

China, Australia sign science, tourism deals

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2011-04-26 13:20

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (C) walks with Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard as they inspect an honour guard during an official welcoming ceremony in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing April 26, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]

BEIJING - China and Australia on Tuesday signed five cooperative agreements in Beijing with an eye to advance their constructive cooperation.

The signing ceremony was held in the presence of Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and visiting Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard, who is making her first visit to China since taking office in 2010.

The cooperative documents include a minister-level statement on science and technology, memorandums of understanding (MoU) on customs, tourism and establishment of a China-Australia service trade forum, as well as a deal on financing for iron ore project of Western Australia's Karara Mining Ltd..

Before the signing ceremony, Premier Wen said in talks with Gillard that China highly values relations with Australia and views the country as "an important partner" in mutually beneficial cooperation.

Gillard arrived in Beijing on Monday for a four-day official visit. Chinese President Hu Jintao is also scheduled to meet with Gillard, Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang and Gillard will attend the China-Australia Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard walks with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (unseen) as they inspect an honour guard during an official welcoming ceremony in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing April 26, 2011. [Photo/Agencies]