Premier Li Qiang said there is great potential for cooperation between China and Canada during a call with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.

According to Xinhua News Agency, Li told Carney that Beijing is willing to strengthen exchanges and dialogue with Ottawa in various areas to find solutions that address each other's concerns.

The premier said China is ready to work towards improving ties, which he noted were affected by what he called "unnecessary interference" in recent years.

Li said China is willing to safeguard multilateralism and embrace free trade with Canada. He also stressed the promotion of bilateral relations to achieve win-win results.

The premier added the two countries should strengthen cooperation in clean energy, climate change and innovation.

According to the Canadian prime minister's office, Beijing and Ottawa agreed to set up regular communication channels.

"Carney took the opportunity to raise trade irritants affecting agriculture and agri-food products, including canola and seafood, as well as other issues, with Premier Li," the statement added. (Agencies)