Visiting Chinese President Hu Jintao(L) shakes hands with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper as they hold talks in Ottawa, Canada, June 24, 2010.(Xinhua/Fan Rujun)

China and Canada on Thursday pledged joint efforts to advance bilateral cooperation in an all-round manner and further promote their strategic partnership.

Chinese President Hu Jintao met separately with Canadian Governor General Michaelle Jean and Prime Minister Stephen Harper in Ottawa on a state visit and the two sides signed cooperation agreements aimed at bringing ties closer.

Talking with Jean, Hu said China and Canada share a long history of friendly exchanges, have a lot of common interests and enjoy broad prospects of cooperation.

He suggested both sides join hands to explore trade opportunities, expand cooperation in a wide range of areas and strengthen coordination and cooperation on major regional and international issues.

Jean said Canada regards China as a friend and important partner and Hu's visit and her upcoming visit to China show the extent of the enduring friendship between Canada and China.

In talks with Harper, Hu put forward five proposals for further advancing China-Canada relations, including increasing contact at all levels, expanding practical cooperation, stepping up cultural and people-to-people exchanges, enhancing cooperation in global and regional affairs, and respecting each other's core interests and major concerns.