President Jiang Zemin told visiting former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger that China and the US should aim at the common interests of the two nations and push forward Sino-US relations in the 21st century.

"The Chinese government and I myself attach great importance to the Sino-US ties", Jiang said, expressing his hope that the two sides will enhance trust and communication and expand cooperation. "I look forward to making joint efforts with President Bush in this regard," he added.

Looking back at the 20th century, Jiang said despite twists and turns, the Sino-US ties are in general forging ahead. Currently, the China-US relations are at a critical stage, he said. Facts have proven that sound Sino-US relations will benefit the two sides, and contribute to peace, stability and development of the Asia Pacific region as well as the world, he said.

"As mankind steps into the 21st century, Sino-US relations face new opportunities as well as challenges. China and the US share extensive common interests in many major international issues," Jiang said.

He said Kissinger's visit to China three decades ago as the special envoy of former US President Richard Nixon made a historic contribution to Sino-US relations.

"You have supported and closely watched the development of Sino- U.S. ties and made unremitting efforts since then," Jiang said, noting that the long-term efforts made by friends from all walks of life in the US society have contributed tremendously to the development of bilateral relations.

Kissinger agreed that US-China relations are of vital importance. Having witnessed the willingness of the Chinese side in improving such relations during his visit, he said he will continue to make sustained efforts in this regard.

Dr. Kissinger and his America-China Society delegation arrived here last Thursday as guest of the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs.

(People's Daily 03/20/2001)