Source: Xinhua

12-04-2008 09:15

China and the United States started their fifth strategic economic dialogue in the Chinese capital on Thursday morning. The two-day talks are co-chaired by Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan and U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson.

The 5th round of China-U.S. strategic economic dialogue kicks off in Beijing Thursday morning. The two-day talks were  co-chaired by Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan and U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson. (Xinhua Photo)

At the start of the Beijing meeting, Wang Qishan said China backs Washington's efforts to stabilize world financial markets. He said restoring confidence and avoiding a global financial meltdown must be priorities for policy makers.

Henry Paulson said the strategic economic dialogue has helped both the US and China manage difficult trade and investment issues. He praised China for its help in trying to tamp down global economic turbulence.

Paulson said the SED meeting will focus on the building blocks for an enduring U.S.-China economic partnership. Wang Qishan said China will work with the US to conclude the Doha round of global trade talks and fight protectionism.