China and the United States should maintain close interactions at the top and other levels for full communication, Chinese President Hu Jintao said on Monday while addressing the opening session of the China-U.S. Strategic and Economic Dialogue.

He said that full communication is an important basis for enhanced cooperation, and not even the most sophisticated telecommunication technology can replace face-to-face exchanges.

"In my meeting with President Obama in Washington on April 12 this year, we both agreed to stay in close touch through meetings, phone calls and correspondence," said Hu.

"We should also step up strategic dialogues and consultations to deepen understanding, expand common ground and promote cooperation," he added.

About 50 representatives from more than 40 departments of the two countries participated in the second round of the China-U.S. dialogue held in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

The first round of the dialogue was held in Washington in July last year.