Wen´s visit strengthens Sino-US relations

cctv.com 12-11-2003 09:20

Premier Wen Jiabao just wrapped up his four-day official visit to the United States late on Wednesday. He has now left for Canada to continue his four-nation tour. During his US visit, the Chinese premier and US President George W. Bush shared their opinions and reached consensus in many areas, including on the Taiwan issue, as well as other issues, including trade, and Pyongyang's nuclear program. The two leaders agree that strengthening two-way relations will benefit Chinese and Americans, as well as world peace and stability.

Premier Wen Jiabao is China's most senior visitor to America since a new generation of leaders took office in March.

His high-profile trip took place against a backdrop of tension over Taiwan, the most sensitive issue between Beijing and Washington.

Prior to his talks with Bush, Wen Jiabao met UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan in New York. He reaffirmed China's position that peaceful re-unification is the best way to settle the question.

"The Chinese government understands the aspirations of the compatriots in Taiwan for democracy. But, the essence of the problem now is that the separatist forces within Taiwan island are attempting to use democracy only as a cover to split Taiwan away from China. And this is what we will never tolerate," said the premier.

Later, Wen Jiabao met with US bankers in New York. He took the occasion to propose five principles on fair trade and economic partnership between China and the US.

Wen said, "Let me first assure you that I have come to this country to seek friendship and cooperation, and shall not and will not fight a trade war."

In Washington on Monday, Wen Jiabao dined with US Secretary of State Colin Powell. The same day, the Bush administration strongly criticized a referendum planned by the Taiwan authorities that could be interpreted as a move toward independence from China.

In their talks on Tuesday, Wen Jiabao and George W. Bush reached consensus on working closely to further improve and strengthen bilateral relations.

With regards to the Korean Peninsula, Bush said the two countries share a common goal of denuclearization. China says diplomatic efforts to convene another round of talks are being intensified.

Addressing the US-China Business Council after his talks with President Bush, Wen Jiabao said the wishes to see closer cooperation are sincere on both sides. He said although the Sino-US relationship has experienced ups and downs, it keeps moving forward no matter what obstacles lie in the way.

The relationship between China and the United States is a complex one that covers diverse and common interests. The two countries have come a long way since they established formal diplomatic ties in 1979. The leaders of both nations know they need a harmonious relationship if they are going to move ahead.

Editor:Xiao  Source:CCTV.com