Chinese State Councilor Meng Jianzhu met with New Zealand Minister for Ethnic Affairs Judith Collins here on Monday.

China advocates that every country should choose its own way of handling ethnic affairs in accordance with its own national and ethnic situation, Meng said.

He said China opposes any country or institution using ethnic, religious or human rights issues to interfere with another country's domestic affairs.

Meng added that this year marks the 40th anniversary of China-New Zealand ties. China is ready to work with New Zealand to push forward their comprehensive cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and equality.

Collins echoed Meng, saying she hoped to enhance the mutual understanding and friendship between the two countries as well as bilateral relations through her visit to China.

After her stay in Beijing, Collins will visit southwest China's Yunnan province, which is home to many ethnic minority groups.