CHINA-AUSTRALIA COOPERATION CAN SPAN THE PACIFIC, TRANSCEND DIFFERENCES

ADELAIDE, Australia, June 16 (Bernama-Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Sunday that as long as both sides cherish it, the cooperation between China and Australia can cross the vast Pacific Ocean, transcend differences, and achieve mutual achievements and win-win results, reported Xinhua.

He made the remarks when visiting the Adelaide Zoo for China-Australia cooperation on panda protection and research. He was accompanied by Governor of South Australia Frances Adamson, Premier of South Australia Peter Malinauskas, Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong and Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell. 

Adelaide Zoo, the sole Australian zoo housing giant pandas, provided insights into the conservation and care of Wang Wang and Fu Ni, the only pair of giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere. Li expressed satisfaction with their well-being in Australia, highlighting their role as ambassadors of friendship between the two nations.

Li emphasised that the Chinese government's efforts in giant panda conservation have made significant strides, contributing positively to global biodiversity and the protection of endangered species.

Regarding the upcoming return of Wang Wang and Fu Ni to China as per bilateral agreement, Li expressed China's readiness to continue collaboration with Australia on panda protection and research. He also expressed hope that Australia will remain a friendly environment for giant pandas.

During the visit, local primary school students performed a panda-themed song in Chinese for Li, who warmly interacted with them. Li encouraged the students to visit China, experience the birthplace and habitat of giant pandas, explore China's beautiful landscapes and rich culture, and become ambassadors of friendship between China and Australia.

-- BERNAMA-XINHUA