Of equal sensitivity are issues related to Tibet. Tibet is an inalienable part of China's territory and Tibetan affairs are exclusively China's internal affairs. Since the launch of democratic reform 50 years ago, Tibet has made remarkable progress. Its economy has registered rapid growth, various undertakings have advanced by leaps and bounds, average life expectancy has almost doubled and people's living standards have improved steadily. The fine traditional culture of Tibet has been well preserved, and the people there enjoy all rights prescribed by law. I hope that people from various sectors in the United States will appreciate these facts, and understand and respect the Chinese people's position of upholding state sovereignty and territorial integrity.
To advance China-US relations in the new era, we should promote dialogue and exchanges between people of the two countries and build stronger public support for the relations.
We will not forget that the ice in China-US relations began to thaw with the mutual visits of our ping pong teams. And the tremendous progress made in our relations over the past 30 years would not have been possible without the active involvement and support of people from all walks of life in both countries.
We should think creatively and continue to promote dialogue and exchanges between our legislatures, academic and business communities and media organizations. We should also step up exchanges at the local level. Through such efforts, we will mobilize more people to support and contribute to the growth of China-US relations. It is of particular importance to look ahead to the future and vigorously promote and support exchanges and cooperation between the young people, so that the cause of China-US friendship will endure and prosper further.
China and the United States should build sustained, sound and stable relations, as this not only serves the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, but also contributes to world peace, stability and development. The development of China-US relations has proven time and again that China and the United States are partners for cooperation, not adversaries or enemies. Cooperation brings benefits to both countries, while confrontation hurts both sides. Some Americans often say, "It is through cooperation, rather than conflict, that your greatest successes will be derived." So let us join hands and work together for a splendid future of China-US relations.
Thank you.
(China Daily March 18, 2009)