On March 27, 2009, Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi held talks in the Foreign Ministry with Australian Foreign Minister Stephen Smith.

Yang said the current bilateral ties maintain a good momentum of comprehensive development, featuring frequent high-level contacts and fruitful exchanges and cooperation in various fields such as economy and trade, energy and resources, science and technology, culture and tourism. "China and Australia have also enhanced consultation and dialogue in international and regional affairs," said Yang. China is ready to work with Australia to strengthen dialogues, exchanges and cooperation based on mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit in a bid to push forward China-Australia comprehensive cooperative relations of mutual benefit.

The Australian government attached great importance to developing ties with China, said Smith. He also stressed that Australia would continue to stick to the one-China policy. He said Australia is willing to keep close high-level contacts with China and further promote bilateral friendly communication and cooperation so as to make positive efforts for developing Australia-China ties.

Both sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.