China, Canada agree to strengthen economic, trade ties

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang makes remarks when meeting journalists together with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau in Ottawa, Sept 22, 2016. Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn

He added that what's more important is to manage their differences, knowing that their common interests far outweigh differences, Li said.

"We are very pleased about the nature and the stability we have been able to bring to the Canada-China relationship," said Trudeau at the joint press conference. Trudeau said the two sides agreed to double the bilateral trade volume by 2025, and the economic relations between the two countries have huge potential that can create decent salaries and jobs. Trudeau added that maintaining stable relations with China is in the interests of both countries. He is looking forward to bringing more opportunities for Canadians through relations with China.

Before the joint press conference, the two leaders also attended a signing ceremony for 14 bilateral cooperation documents.

The two countries signed an agreement on the sharing and return of forfeited assets, a joint statement on the cooperation in third-party market, a protocol for frozen beef to be exported from Canada to China, an arrangement in cooperation in combating crimes, an arrangement for enhanced cooperation in tourism, and others.

Earlier, Trudeau held a welcome ceremony for the Chinese premier, and held talks with Li, which represents the formal launch of an annual dialogue mechanism between the two heads of government established during Trudeau's China trip.

Li on Thursday also met with Canada's Senate Speaker George Furey, Speaker of the House of Commons Geoff Regan and the General Governor David Johnston.