President Jiang Zemin told visiting former US Secretary of State
Henry Kissinger that China and the US should aim at the common
interests of the two nations and push forward Sino-US relations in
the 21st century.
"The Chinese government and I myself attach great importance to the
Sino-US ties", Jiang said, expressing his hope that the two sides
will enhance trust and communication and expand cooperation. "I
look forward to making joint efforts with President Bush in this
regard," he added.
Looking back at the 20th century, Jiang said despite twists and
turns, the Sino-US ties are in general forging ahead. Currently,
the China-US relations are at a critical stage, he said. Facts have
proven that sound Sino-US relations will benefit the two sides, and
contribute to peace, stability and development of the Asia Pacific
region as well as the world, he said.
"As mankind steps into the 21st century, Sino-US relations face new
opportunities as well as challenges. China and the US share
extensive common interests in many major international issues,"
Jiang said.
He
said Kissinger's visit to China three decades ago as the special
envoy of former US President Richard Nixon made a historic
contribution to Sino-US relations.
"You have supported and closely watched the development of Sino-
U.S. ties and made unremitting efforts since then," Jiang said,
noting that the long-term efforts made by friends from all walks of
life in the US society have contributed tremendously to the
development of bilateral relations.
Kissinger agreed that US-China relations are of vital importance.
Having witnessed the willingness of the Chinese side in improving
such relations during his visit, he said he will continue to make
sustained efforts in this regard.
Dr. Kissinger and his America-China Society delegation arrived here
last Thursday as guest of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign
Affairs.
(People's Daily 03/20/2001)