BEIJING, July 9 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao told visiting US National Security Advisor Condoleezza Rice that her visit could be helpful to fully understand China's aspiration in promoting Sion-US ties and the country's "serious concern" over the Taiwan issue.

    After expressing his welcome to Rice for her China visit as US President George W. Bush's special envoy, Hu said the frequent communication and consultation between the state leaders on Sino-US ties and major issues of mutual concern is very important for the promotion of the sound and steady development of bilateral relations.

    Rice arrived in China Thursday noon. Between Thursday afternoonand Friday morning, Chairman of the Chinese Central Military Commission Jiang Zemin, State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan and Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing met or held talks with Rice, respectively.

    All these indicated that China "attaches importance to Rice's visit", Hu said during his meeting with Rice at the Great Hall of the People Friday morning.

    Rice said that it's "wonderful" to be here and conveyed President Bush's greetings to President Hu and Chinese people. US-China relations were "developing in a positive way," she told Hu in her opening remarks. President Bush hoped that the two sides could discuss all the questions in a mutually respect atmosphere, Rice added.

    By press time, the meeting is still going on.

    Rice paid the visit as guest of Li Zhaoxing and was expected toleave Beijing for Seoul Friday noon.

    It was reported that China was the second-leg of her three-nation Asian tour, along with Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK).

    Rice had visited China in February, 2002 as she accompanied President Bush on a working visit. Enditem