BEIJING, Jan. 17 (Xinhua) -- China hopes that Germany and China will handle mutual ties from a strategic and comprehensive view, and ensure that the relations between the two countries develop ina healthy and stable way, said the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman here Thursday.

    The two sides need to recognize and pay attention to the important issues of concern to each other, said Jiang Yu at a regular press conference.

    When asked to comment on German Chancellor Angela Merkel's words that Germany is willing to improve Sino-German relations, Jiang said China values Merkel's attitude greatly.

    Merkel also revealed plan to visit China in October during the Asia Europe Meeting (ASEM) on Tuesday, and wished success for the 2008 Olympic Games.

    Jiang said China attaches great importance to the ties with Germany, and always develops relations with Germany under the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, as well as the non-interference in each other's internal affairs.