China's top political advisor Jia Qinglin arrived in Perth on Tuesday for a 6-day visit to Australia.

Jia, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, said at the airport that Sino-Australian ties have maintained a sound momentum of growth, thanks to the concerted effort of the governments and people from across the societies of both countries since the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Noting that both China and Australia are important countries in the Asia Pacific region, Jia said the two countries have seen frequent high-level exchanges and fruitful cooperation in such fields as economy, trade, science and technology, education, culture and tourism and maintain close communication and coordination on major international and regional issues.

The development of Sino-Australian relations has brought real benefits to both Chinese and Australians and made positive contribution to peace and stability in the region and beyond, he said.

China has always attached great importance to its relationship with Australia, he said.

China sees Australia as a good partner for mutually-beneficial cooperation in the Asia Pacific region, Jia added.

Australia is the second stop of Jia's three-nation tour, which will also take him to Samoa. Jia visited Myanmar on April 2 for a 4-day visit.

(Xinhua News Agency April 5, 2011)