Australian Prime Minister John Howard said in Canberra Thursday that Australia firmly adheres to the one-China policy. 

He made the remarks when meeting Wang Jiarui, head of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee.

Speaking highly of Australia's relations with China, the prime minister said the two countries are forging a sort of strategic partnership, marked by closer economic and trade ties and increased exchange of personnel.

Wang said China views its relations with Australia from a strategic perspective and is willing to push forward, together with the Australian side, the healthy and stable development of the bilateral relations.

He expressed his appreciation for Australia's adherence to the one-China policy.

Wang is leading a CPC delegation on a three-day visit to Australia at the invitation of the ruling Liberal Party of Australia.

During his visit, Wang met with Deputy Prime Minister and Leader of National Party John Anderson, Foreign Minister Alexander Downer, Leader of Liberal Party Shanel Stone and Opposition Leader Kim Beazley.

(Xinhua News Agency June 3, 2005)