China welcomes visit by Australian PM

BEIJING, March 4 (Xinhua) -- Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is welcome to visit China as early as possible, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang.

"We welcome him to visit China at an early and convenient time for both, and believe his visit would help push forward China-Australia relations," he said.

Qin told a press conference here that the schedule of Rudd's visit was under discussion.

He said Sino-Australian relations had developed rapidly with the establishment of the strategic and cooperative relations.

He added China welcomes Rudd's willingness to strengthen cooperation with the country after he became prime minister.

"China is also ready to work with Australia to enhance mutual trust, exchanges and cooperation to promote peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region," Qin said.