China: Hu Jintao Meets with U.S. Treasury Secretary Geithner

On the afternoon of June 2, 2009, Chinese President Hu Jintao met at the Great Hall of the People with U.S. Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, who is also special representative of the U.S. President.

"As influential nations in the world, China and the United States share extensive common interests and shoulder important responsibilities in tackling global financial crisis, promoting the world economic recovery, resolving the international and regional hot-button issues and safeguarding world peace and security," Hu said. Hu urged both sides to proceed from the strategic and long-term perspective, stick to the overall situation and seize opportunities in developing bilateral ties. He said China would like to work with the United States to strengthen dialogues at all levels and expand exchanges and cooperation in all areas for fresh progress in bilateral relations in the new era.

Hu characterized the China-U.S. strategic and economic dialogue mechanism as "an important platform for both nations to deepen understanding, mutual trust and cooperation." "As both sides agreed to hold the first round of dialogue in Washington D.C. in July, I hope both will work closely, step up preparation so as to make the dialogue a success," Hu said. He called for joint efforts of both sides to continuously improve the mechanism so as to make due contributions to the development of bilateral ties in the new era.

U.S. President Barack Obama has made a commitment that the U.S. will endeavor to develop a stronger cooperative relationship with China, Geithner said. The U.S. side looked forward to positive outcome at the strategic and economic dialogue to be held in Washington D.C. and was ready to hold strategic, forward-looking and long-term dialogue with China on major issues of common concern, he said. The two countries have played an important role in stabilizing the international financial system and promoting the global economic recovery. The U.S. is ready to strengthen cooperation with China in the financial, trade and other sectors, promote the reform of the international financial system and push forward global economic stability and sustainable development, he added.

Vice Premier Wang Qishan, Minister of Finance Xie Xuren and other officials attended the meeting.

view original source