Wu Bangguo (R2), chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, the country's top legislature, meets with members of a delegation of the Committee of 100 (C-100), a Chinese American group, in Beijing, capital of China, Dec. 10, 2009. (Xinhua/Li Xueren) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, Dec. 10 (Xinhua) -- Chinese top legislator Wu Bangguo on Thursday called for Chinese American group the Committee of 100(C-100) to contribute more to boosting China-U.S. friendship and cooperation.

    "China-U.S. relations are of great strategic significance and global influence under the new circumstance, and common interests of both sides far outweigh differences," Wu told a delegation led by Chairman John S. Chen of the C-100.

    Wu, chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPC), spoke positively of the C-100's efforts to support China's reform, opening-up and modernization drive, and boost understanding between the two peoples.

    He hopes the non-partisan organization comprised of prominent Chinese Americans, to make greater contribution to cementing understanding, exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

    China-U.S. relations have witnessed a smooth transition and maintained a positive momentum of growth since the new U.S. administration took office in January, said Wu, citing frequent high-level contacts and in-depth dialogues in various areas.

    "China is ready to work closely with the United States to fulfill the consensus reached by the two heads of state, and promote further growth of bilateral positive, cooperative and comprehensive ties," he added.

    John S. Chen, Chairman, CEO and President of Sybase, Inc., said the C-100 would continue to boost U.S.-China friendship and bilateral exchanges in the areas such as culture, education, technology and trade.

    Recalling Wu's U.S. trip in September, Chen said the visit had turned over a new page for U.S.-China parliamentary exchanges and overall relations.

    Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan and Li Jianguo, vice chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, also met with the U.S. delegations earlier on Thursday.

    Founded in 1989, the C-100 has dedicated its efforts to a dual mission: encouraging constructive relations between the peoples of the United States and China, and encouraging the full participation of Chinese Americans in all aspects of American life.