China, Canada issue joint statement, highlight sustainable growth

China and Canada issued a joint statement in Beijing on January 20, agreeing to join hands in achieving sustainable growth through trade, investment and innovation.

The two highlighted the role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) and agreed to improve cooperation under that framework.

"As WTO members and major trading nations, such a rules-based multilateral trading system is vital for our prosperity," the two said in the statement.

They agreed to cooperate closely in preparation for the WTO Ministerial meeting in Hong Kong later this year to promote the early and successful completion of the Doha Development Agenda, according to the statement.

The statement said China's accession to the WTO has brought unprecedented opportunities for cooperation between enterprises inboth countries. "We will also strengthen our cooperation through an ambitious program of technical assistance, to support China's full and active participation in the WTO."

The statement said the bilateral economic relationship between China and Canada is strong. The two agreed to further strengthen that relationship through a series of concrete initiatives designed to support the continued expansion of partnership in trade, investment and innovation.

In addition, the statement said the two are resolved to address the problem of global warming in light of their shared commitment to sustainable development and balanced growth.

The joint statement was issued after Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin held their official talks Thursday afternoon.

Source: Xinhua