China on Tuesday voiced hope of success for the Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED) with the United States later this week, saying that both sides will make efforts for this goal.

"The SED is an important mechanism initiated by state leaders of both countries to promote the healthy and stable development of Sino-U.S. economic relations. It is proven to promote in-depth discussions on some strategic, comprehensive issues," foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao told a regular press conference.

The two countries have deepened understanding and pushed forward bilateral economic ties, according to Liu.

The fifth round of the SED is to be held in Beijing from Thursday to Friday. During the meeting, Chinese and U.S. officials will discuss a wide range of issues such as macro-economic policy, the financial crisis, energy, the environment, trade, investment, food safety and product quality.

"We hope the coming SED will achieve success. Both sides will make joint efforts for this goal," he added.

Earlier on Tuesday, Chinese Vice Premier Wang Qishan and U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson discussed the coming talks by telephone, promised to prepare well to ensure the success of the SED, and agreed to put into action the consensus reached by leaders of the two countries.

"This mechanism serves a key role in Sino-U.S.relations. We are willing to continuously work with the new U.S. administration to enhance economic and trade cooperation for the benefit of both peoples," Liu said.

The twice-yearly talks, launched in 2006, have become an important platform for the economic leaders of both countries to exchange views on bilateral economic and trade relations.

(Xinhua News Agency December 2, 2008)