Evans said that China is one of the most important trade partners of the United States and that many US companies are interested in pursuing business opportunities in China.

"The companies with us this week are in sectors with great potential: information technology, telecommunications, engineering, construction and medical technology," said Evans. "We have more US Commerce Department personnel and resources in China than in any other nation."

Evans leads a business delegation to Beijing for the 14th conference of the Sino-US Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade.

He said expanded trade has led to greater economic development, higher standards of living, poverty relief and a more peaceful and prosperous world.

US exports to China rose sharply in the last two years, in what some call the "World Trade Organization (WTO) effect."

In China, more sectors are opening up, and the United States was pleased to see China join the global trading body last year, he said.

He said that China's economic achievements have attracted more foreigners and that the United States is willing to continue cooperation with China in the field of technology aid.

Evans also said the United States may grant more exclusions from steep steel tariffs, which have caused a global uproar and threats of retaliation.

During her meeting with Evans yesterday, State Councilor Wu Yi said that a more open market brought on by China's WTO entry will add momentum to the development of bilateral trade ties. A spokesman with the Ministry of Foreign Trade and Economic Cooperation quoted Wu as saying that China and the United States complement each other nicely in trade and economy.

The official said the two countries should consult one another and continue to explore new fields for cooperation under the mechanism of the Joint Commission on Commerce and Trade.

(China Daily April 23, 2002)