On October 24, 2008, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met at the Great Hall of the People with Austrian Federal Chancellor Alfred Gusenbauer.

Wen said that China cherished the friendship with Austria and appreciated the positive attitude from the Austrian side for strengthening cooperation with China. Further pushing forward the Chinese-Austrian relations under new circumstances would meet mutual benefits, which is one important factor contributing to closer China-Europe and Asia-Europe relations, Wen said. Wen said he hopes the two countries would increase dialogues at various levels in order to enhance mutual understanding and trust. He also noted Austria, with advanced technologies and know-how on environmental protection, energy saving and eco-agriculture, could find a bright future in the Chinese market. With the spirit of mutual benefits and a win-win target, Wen said, the two sides should proceed with more practical cooperation. One highlight of the bilateral cooperation was on the cultural exchange, which had been welcomed by both Chinese and Austrian people, Wen said. He urged both sides to fully tap this advantage and promote personnel exchanges in a broader area.

Gusenbauer said Austria attaches great importance to the relationship with China and hopes to keep high-profile exchange with the Chinese side. Austria also hopes to strengthen cooperation in politics, trade and economy, science and technology, culture, and education, exchange views in a timely manner on major international issues and jointly cope with global challenges such as financial crises and climate change. Gusenbauer said Austria would make further contribution to a better Europe-China relationship.