Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan met Thursday with former Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien.

Tang spoke highly of the development of China-Canada relations in recent years, expressing appreciation for Chretien's contribution to promoting bilateral ties.

Tang said that China and Canada share extensive and important common interests in many fields, hoping that Chretien would continue his efforts to enhance exchanges and cooperation between China and Canada.

Chretien said China plays an increasingly important role in international affairs. He would continue working to promote Canada-China exchanges and cooperation.

Source: Xinhua