CRI听力:Xi Address Australian Parliament: Ties Have Bright Prospects

Chinese President Xi Jinping has delivered an address to the Australian federal parliament in Canberra, following the just-completed G20 summit in Brisbane, Australia.

He outlined China's plans for peace, stability and prosperity, based on a comprehensive strategic partnership and the substantial completion of FTA negotiations with Australia.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is the second Chinese leader to address the Australian parliament, after former President Hu Jintao.

The two sides have decided to elevate the bilateral relations into a comprehensive strategic partnership and announced the substantial completion of FTA negotiations.

XI Jinping said bilateral relations have developed very quicky in recent years and will have bright prospects.

"The two way trade of China and Australia has grown from 86 million US dollars in the early years of bilateral diplomatic relations to 136 billion in 2013. And China has been Australia's biggest trading partner for five years. China has become Australia's largest source of International students and tourism revenue. In 2013, China and Australia established a strategic partnership, which was a significant milestone in the growth of the bilateral relationship."

Xi Jinping pointed out the two sides should endeavor to build trust and become stronger partners.

In the coming days, President Xi is looking forward to discussing ways to further boost bilateral relations while meeting with Australian leaders and friends.

But the Chinese president is also mindful of international perceptions when it comes to disagreements between nations.

"China is like a big guy in the crowd, others will naturally wonder how the big guy will move or act. They may be concerned that the big guy will push them around, stand in their way, or even take their place. So here let me address several key issues that are of interest to you. First is that China remains unshakable in its resolve to pursue peaceful development."

XI Jinping adds China also remains unshakable in its commitment to pursuing common development and in its resolve to pursue the policy of promoting cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific.

He says China and Australia should enhance strategic dialogue,be sincere and trustworthy partners,and jointly safeguard the regional peace and stability of the Asia-Pacific region.

Xi Jinping will visit Tasmania, Australia later. After Australia, he will also pay state visits to New Zealand and Fiji.