Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli meets with Bill English, Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, in Beijing on July 13, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli meets with Bill English, Deputy Prime Minister of New Zealand, in Beijing on July 13, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

China is willing to work with New Zealand to further develop the bilateral strategic partnership and bring more benefits to the people of both countries, Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli said on July 13.

Zhang made the comments during a meeting in Beijing with New Zealand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Bill English, adding that the development of the bilateral relationship gained good momentum - and fruitful achievements were made - during President Xi Jinping’s visit to New Zealand last year.

There have also been frequent high-level visits between the two countries, political mutual trust has deepened, and the trade and economic relationship has developed rapidly, Zhang said, adding that China has become New Zealand’s largest trading partner.

The vice-premier said that the China-New Zealand relationship has new important opportunities and the huge potential for cooperation remains untapped.

China is willing to make joint efforts with New Zealand to strengthen communication and cooperation in various fields based on mutual respect and equality, in order to further promote the development of the bilateral strategic partnership, he added.

English said his country is happy to see China’s great economic achievements, and is willing to actively take part in the preparation work of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

New Zealand hopes to carry out further cooperation with China in more areas - and also hopes to jointly push forward the development of the bilateral relationship, he also said.