China's top legislator said Monday that China will boost its relationship with Canada as the two countries celebrate the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.  

Wu Bangguo, chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, said China will work with Canada to address issues of mutual concern and push forward the healthy development of the all-round cooperative partnership between the two countries.

Wu made the remarks at a meeting with a Canadian parliamentary delegation headed by Speaker of the Senate Daniel Hays.

He praised the development of bilateral relations as "generally good." He said over the past few years, the all-round cooperative partnership between China and Canada has showed a sound momentum. Economic links grew rapidly as two-way trade volume surged. China has become the second largest trade partner of Canada, surpassing Japan. Bilateral cooperation in education, science, technology, culture and other areas has also deepened.

Wu said the NPC has maintained close contact with the Federal Parliament of Canada. Leaders, specialized committees and friendship societies of the two parliaments have carried out cooperation on various levels. The two sides also conducted effective cooperation on legislative affairs.

Wu expressed the willingness to continue the momentum of parliament-to-parliament exchanges and cooperation. He said he wished the two sides will continue to deepen mutual understanding, enhance their friendship and add new content and impetus to bilateral relations.

Hays said the relationship between Canada and China is generally good. He said the government and parliament of Canada will continue to stick to the one-China policy.

He said Canada places great importance on developing relations with China. He wishes to deepen mutual understanding and explore new areas and ways of cooperation between the two countries during his current visit to China.

(Xinhua News Agency June 7, 2005)