Chinese President Hu Jintao (R) meets with
visiting U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in Beijing June 30, 2008.
(Xinhua Photo) Photo Gallery>>>
BEIJING, June 30 (Xinhua) -- President Hu Jintao told
visiting U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on Monday that relations
between China and the United States were at a "crucial stage" linking the past
to the future.
He added that "Whatever changes take place in the
United States and the international situation, our guideline of developing
constructive, cooperative relations with the United States remains unchanged."
He pledged to work with the United States to enhance
dialogue and exchange based on mutual respect, equality, reciprocity and
prosperity to promote trust and cooperation and push forward the healthy
development of Sino-U.S. relations.
"Furthering the Sino-U.S. relationship conforms to
the fundamental interest of the two countries and peoples, and it has a profound
impact on the peace, stability and development of the Asia-Pacific region and
the world," he said.
Hailing the current state of U.S.-China ties, Rice
said President George W. Bush was expected to meet Hu during the upcoming G8
summit and dialogues.
She said Bush would continue to promote relations
with China in the final part of his term and would strengthen cooperation with
China on the six-party talks and other issues.
Hu reaffirmed China's stance on the Taiwan issue, and
Rice said that the United States adhered to the one-China policy.
Hu thanked the United States for its assistance after
the May 12 Sichuan earthquake, saying Rice's tour to the quake zone on Sunday
demonstrated "a warm feeling by Americans to Chinese people".
Rice said she was impressed with the recovery efforts
and the spirit of the people.
After spending about four hours in quake-stricken
Sichuan Province, Rice arrived in Beijing on Sunday afternoon to continue her
visit to China.
Rice met with Hu on Monday morning following meetings with Premier Wen Jiabao and State Councilor Dai Bingguo.
