They agreed to work together to build a positive, cooperative and comprehensive Sino-US relationship, launched the China-US strategic and economic dialogue, and vowed to step up cooperation on a wide range of issues, including dealing with the global economic downturn.

"All of these decisions gave clear direction to the development of Sino-US relations," a Foreign Ministry statement quoted Yang as saying during the 45-minute meeting in the ministry building.

China and the United States shared broader common interests and more extensive basis for cooperation in light of the profound and complex changes in the international situation and the spreading economic downturn, Yang said.

"We will strengthen contact and coordination on major international and regional issues, properly handle important and sensitive issues so as to push forward the consistent, sound and steady development of China-US relations," Yang said.

Steinberg, who has visited Japan and the Republic of Korea since the Democratic People's Republic of Korea's nuclear test last week, said the United States would work with China to build a positive, cooperative and comprehensive Sino-US relationship.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi (R) shakes hands with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg in Beijing, capital of China, June 5, 2009. [Zhang Duo/Xinhua]

Washington would step up dialogue and negotiations with Beijing on a broad range of issues, carry out constructive cooperation and promote bilateral ties so as to safeguard peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and the world at large, he was quoted as saying.

Before Steinberg left Beijing later Friday, spokesman for the National Security Council Mike Hammer told reporters he had "very good" meetings with Chinese officials. "It is a very productive day."

(Xinhua News Agency June 6, 2009)