DARWIN, Australia, June 7 (Xinhua) -- Australia's Northern Territory (NT) government has expressed willingness to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in various fields.
Chinese Ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian recently visited Darwin, the capital city of the Northern Territory.
During his visit, he met with NT officials including Chief Minister Natasha Fyles, Deputy Chief Minister Nicole Manison and Mark Monaghan, speaker of the Legislative Assembly.
The Australian officials welcomed Xiao's visit and said that NT looks forward to strengthening cooperation with China in tourism, renewable energy, education and other fields.
Xiao said China is willing to explore more areas of cooperation in addressing climate change, green infrastructure and new energy.
Scott Bowman, vice-chancellor and president of Charles Darwin University (CDU), welcomed Xiao's visit to the campus and expressed his hope to strengthen cooperation with Chinese universities and research institutions in the fields of medicine, environment, agriculture, education and other disciplines.
Bowman mentioned that the Confucius Institute at CDU is not only an important platform for cultural exchanges, but makes important contributions to local communities.
"The Confucius Institute is a really important part of the university. And it's a wonderful way that we can show Darwin and the Northern Territory the fantastic culture of China and teach the Chinese language," he told Xinhua in an interview.
"It is a really great opportunity to build relationships and connections between Australia and China."
Bowman spoke highly of Chinese culture in its role in promoting exchanges. "I love Chinese culture. I visited China many many times. I have friends in China," he said.
"I think it's just a fantastic, friendly culture. It's so different and so intricate, but people are very friendly and welcoming, and they introduce you to the culture," he added.
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