St. PETERSBURG, Russia, May 30 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese President HuJintao, who is here to attend events celebrating the 300th anniversary of St. Petersburg, on Friday met with Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chretien.

During the meeting, Hu said the Chinese new leadership will continue its efforts to develop the friendly relations with Canada.

The two leaders also exchanged views on the fight against severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS). President Hu said he is confident that China is capable of containing the epidemic.

Chretien, who spoke highly of China's progress in controlling the spread of SARS, agreed to strengthen medical and scientific cooperation between the two sides so as to win the battle against SARS. Enditem