Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi meets with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte (L) in Beijing, capital of China, on Jan. 16，2008.(Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Jan. 16 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi stressed the importance of firmly opposing "Taiwan independence" in Sino-U.S. relations in a meeting with U.S. Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte here on Wednesday.

    "Under the current situation, to more firmly oppose the Taiwan authorities' splitting activities such as the 'UN membership referendum' is of crucial importance to safeguarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and the overall situation of China-U.S. relations," Yang said.

    Negroponte reiterated the U.S. position on Taiwan's "UN membership referendum".

    Yang hailed the steady developing momentum of China-U.S. ties, saying both sides should continue to strengthen exchanges and cooperation and enhance mutual understanding and trust, to promote constructive and cooperative ties between the two countries toward new progress.

    Negroponte, who is here to attend the fifth round of China-U.S. strategic dialogue from Jan. 17 to 18, said the U.S-China relationship is very important. The U.S. side is looking forward to making joint efforts with China to further promote bilateral ties.

    The two also exchanged views on some international and regional issues of common concern.