Chinese President Hu Jintao said in Beijing Wednesday that China-Australia relations will continue to grow thanks to concerted efforts by both sides.

He told an Australian parliament delegation led by Judi Moylan, chairperson of the Australia-China friendship group of the Australian Federal Parliament, that ties had developed soundly with enhanced cooperation in all areas.

Hu, who paid a state visit to Australia in October, said he reached a consensus with Australian leaders on enriching and deepening relations on the basis of mutual trust, long-term friendship, and mutual benefit.

The friendly communication between China's National People's Congress and the Australian Federal Parliament deepened understanding and friendship between the two peoples, he said, adding that he hoped the two sides would enhance cooperation.

Moylan praised Hu's contribution to bilateral ties, saying a strong China was conducive to regional stability and world peace.

She said the Australian parliament hoped to expand exchanges with China.

(Xinhua News Agency November 12, 2003)