cooperative relations with the U.S. remains unchanged,” he added. He pledged to work with the U.S. 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 state of ties, Ms. Rice said U.S. President George W. Bush was expected to meet Mr. Hu during the coming G8 summit. She said Mr. 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. Mr. Hu reaffirmed China’s stance on Taiwan, and Ms. Rice said the U.S. adhered to the one-China policy.

Mr. Hu thanked the U.S. for its assistance after the May 12 Sichuan earthquake, saying Ms. Rice’s tour to the quake zone on Sunday demonstrated “a warm feeling by Americans to Chinese people.” Ms. Rice said she was impressed with the recovery efforts and the spirit of the people.

After spending about four hours in the province, Ms. Rice arrived in Beijing on Sunday. She met Mr. Hu on Monday following meetings with Premier Wen Jiabao and State Councillor Dai Bingguo.

Mr. Wen, in talks with Ms. Rice on Monday, called on the U.S. to take measures to stabilise its currency and prevent further slowdown of the global economy. He highlighted unstable factors in the world economy, stressing they were challenges for both developing and the developed countries.

China was taking measures to safeguard its stable economic development and hoped the U.S. would overcome its credit crisis soon, said Mr. Wen. <<back