I agree, and I've said as much. The recent ministerial visits were positive and valuable, but a relationship with China also has to happen at the most senior of political levels. Therefore I hope the Prime Minister can and will complement with his counterparts the kind of relationship-building his ministers are doing. Then you will truly have the making of a relationship that will stand the test of time and allow us to tackle the toughest issues.
On February 20th, 2007. See this statement in context.