China, Australia to strengthen law enforcement cooperation

China is ready to strengthen law enforcement cooperation with Australia in entry and exit control, said Chinese Minister of Public Security Zhou Yongkang in Beijing Monday.

Zhou, also State Councilor, made the remark in his meeting with Amanda Vanstone, Australian minister for immigration and multicultural and indigenous affairs.

He said China and Australia enjoy sound momentum for development, and have made fruitful cooperation in various fields.

"The Chinese Ministry of Public Security and the Australian Immigration Ministry have kept increasing cooperation in combating cross-border crimes and illegal immigration as well as the exchange of information, which not only conforms to the common interests of both countries but also contributes to world and regional security," Zhou said.

He said China will further enhance "pragmatic" and "efficient" cooperation with Australia in law enforcement, and hopes Australia will provide more convenience in arresting and repatriating fugitives.

Vanstone spoke highly of Australia-China friendly relations. She said illegal immigration and cross-border crimes have threatened the security and stability of the two countries and the world at large.

She said she understands China's concern, and is willing to reach agreement with the Chinese Ministry of Public Security on some issues and enhance bilateral cooperation in combating cross-border crimes, especially their cooperation in entry and exit control during the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

The two sides also signed a meeting summary between the two ministries.

Source: Xinhua