China's Foreign Ministry on Tuesday reiterated its stance on developing relations with Australia after emerging media reports of China halting Australian coal import.

Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told a daily press briefing that a sound and stable China-Australia relationship serves the common interests of both countries, without verifying the reports.

"We hope the Australian side will work with China in the same direction, earnestly uphold the principles of mutual respect, equality and mutual benefit, and do more things that are conducive to China-Australia mutual trust and cooperation and in line with the spirit of our comprehensive strategic partnership."