Foreign Minister Wang Yi met former Australian prime minister Paul Keating on Thursday and highlighted China's desire for Canberra to have an independent foreign policy.

Wang said he appreciated Keating's support for the development of China-Australia ties, saying the two countries should foster mutual understanding and trust to attain win-win cooperation.

The foreign minister noted this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership, and with joint efforts by both sides, relations are returning to the right track.

Keating, a member of the ruling Labor party and the country's prime minister from 1991 to 1996, said they had "a big picture discussion about the geostrategic balances and influences in the world".

He also said China poses no threat to other countries and is conducive to regional peace and stability.

Keating is a critic of Australia's AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine deal with the US and the UK.

The meeting between Wang and Keating was held at the Chinese consulate in Sydney.

The foreign minister was on a visit to New Zealand and Australia this week.

Meanwhile, the Foreign Ministry said China is considering launching talks on maritime affairs with Australia.

"Both sides agreed to restore and establish dialogue in various fields," said spokesman Lin Jian, adding that both countries are also considering launching talks on maritime issues.

Other areas in which both will look to promote co-operation include diplomacy, trade, technology, education and law enforcement, he said in a regular briefing in Beijing.

Australia and China, its largest trading partner, are rebuilding ties after a period of strained relations which hit a low in 2020 after Canberra called for an independent investigation into the origin of Covid-19 and Beijing responded with trade blocks. (Agencies)
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Last updated: 2024-03-21 HKT 19:05