On June 24, 2010, Chinese President Hu Jintao met with Michael Ignatieff, head of the Canadian Liberal Party in Ottawa.
Hu pointed out that since the two countries established diplomatic ties 40 years ago, they have made huge progress in bilateral relations. The Chinese president said under the current international situation that is undergoing profound changes, the two countries share broad common interests and foundation for cooperation in such areas as promoting their own economic growths and the world economy, pushing for resolution of regional hotspot issues and addressing global challenges. Advancing China-Canada relations conforms to the common aspiration of the peoples of both countries, Hu added. Hu also said his country is ready to work with Canada to perceive and develop bilateral ties from a strategic height and with a long-term perspective. He said the two countries should increase exchange of visits by leaders so as to enhance mutual trust. They should also enhance pragmatic cooperation in various areas and carry out close communications and coordination on regional and international issues. China is ready to work with Canada to further advance bilateral ties in a healthy and stable way, he added.
Hu pointed out that the Canadian Liberal Party has actively pursued a friendly policy toward China over the years. China will never forget the important role that the Canadian Liberal Party has played in advancing bilateral ties, he said. Hu said China places importance on its relations with the Canadian Liberal Party and hopes that the party will continue to care for and support expansion of China-Canada relations.
Ignatieff extended warm welcome for Hu’s visit on behalf of the Canadian Liberal Party. Hailing China as a great country, he said the Canadian Liberal Party has always advocated promoting relations with China and will continue to work for advancing bilateral ties in various aspects. He hoped that through more exchanges, the friendship between both peoples will be further built up and the strategic partnership between the two countries will be expanded.
Hu also met with former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien. Hu thanked Chretien for his important contribution to the development of China-Canada relations. Hu expressed the hope that Chretien will continue to care for and support the development of bilateral ties and make fresh contribution to cooperation and friendship between the two countries. Chretien said he was delighted to contribute to the development of bilateral ties and to see the resumption and expansion of bilateral relations. He expressed willingness to continue working for bilateral cooperation in all fields.
Wang Qishan, Ling Jihua, Wang Huning, Dai Bingguo and other officials attended the above meetings.