China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue starts

Watch Video>>

The first round of the China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue has opened in Washington D.C. It's the first time both high level strategic and economic dialogue between the two countries has been arranged under one mechanism. The new dialogue covers a broader range of topics and will include more in-depth talks.

Enhancing cooperation and deepening ties. They're the key words of the China-US Strategic and Economic Dialogue.

Addressing the opening ceremony, US President Barack Obama said the dialogue is an essential step forward in advancing a positive and comprehensive bilateral relationship. Obama said he and his Chinese counterpart, Hu Jintao are committed to a sustained dialogue to enhance shared interests.

U.S. President Barack Obama addresses the opening ceremony of the  China-U.S. Strategic and Economic Dialogue (S&ED) at the Ronald  Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, on  July 27, 2009. (Xinhua/Zhang Yan)

Barack Obama, US President, said, "The relationship between the United States and China will shape the 21st century, which makes it as important as any bilateral relationship in the world. That really must underpin our partnership. That is the responsibility that together we bear."

Obama said the US and China can cooperate in the economic recovery, promote financial stability, pursue free and fair trade, and update international financial institutions.

He urged deeper cooperation between the two countries to advance mutual interests in a clean, secure and prosperous energy future.

The president also called for both sides to stop the spread of nuclear weapons and promote the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula.

And he called for joint efforts to combat transnational threats posed by terrorists, disease and extremists.