Chinese President meets US Defense Secretary of States

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-06-2007 12:34

President Hu Jintao met visiting US Defense Secretary of States Robert Gates in Beijing this morning .

Gates is the highest ranking US military official to visit China since his predecessor Donald Rumsfeld's visit two years ago.

Hu Jintao meets with US Defense Secretary of State Robert Gates and his delegation.

The Chinese President hopes the two countries enhance mutual understanding and promote the all-round and in-depth development of constructive and cooperative ties in various fields.

Hu Jintao said, "Your visit will be conducive to deeper trust between the two countries and armies."

Gates says the exchanges with the Chinese side during this visit has been productive. Such dialogue could expand cooperation and concrete steps to enhance military-to-military ties.

On Monday, Gates met with top Chinese military leaders. China and the US agreed to establish a direct telephone link between the Pentagon and the Defense Ministry in Beijing. Though talks on the details and time frame for opening of the defense hotline are still underway, both regard this one of the most important outcomes of Gates' visit.

Robert Gates said, "there are significant opportunities to expand our contacts in a spirit of candor and honesty "

However, the sale of US weapons to Taiwan cast a shadow over Gates' visit. In September, the US announced tentative plans to sell advanced weaponry to the island, the largest arm sale since the start of the current Bush administration.

Chinese military officials have warned the country will take resolute action and firmly safeguard its national sovereignty at all costs.

Despite the differences, Gates' visit is seen as fruitful.

Qian Lihua, director of Foreign Affairs, Defense Ministry,said, "As partners and friends we believe those differences may not overshadow the prospects of our future co-operation.

Both China and the US call Gates' visit a major event, aimed at improving military ties and building trust between the two countries. The opening of the defense hotline will be a true test of how strong that trust is becoming.

Editor:Zhang Ning