Hu Jintao meets with US Defense Secretary

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Source: CCTV.com | 11-07-2007 08:49

President Hu Jintao has met with visiting US Defense Secretary, Robert Gates. Gates is the highest ranking US military official to visit China since his predecessor, Donald Rumsfeld, came here two years ago.

A warm greeting from the Chinese President.

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, Chinese President 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, US Defense Secretary 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 arms 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, Foreign Affairs Director of Chinese 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:Xiong Qu