Sino - US relations on track despite challenges
cctv.com 04-14-2004 09:20
Cheney's visit had been postponed for a year because of the Iraq War. His arrival on Tuesday comes after a number of disputes over human rights issues and visa application procedures. The visit is expected to help improve Sino-US relations.
Cooperation is the key, despite differences. That's the phrase used most by both China and the United States to summarize their bilateral relations.
Trade between the two countries exceeded 120 billion US dollars in 2003, 50 times more than when diplomatic relations were forged 25 years ago. The US has become the second largest trade partner to China, and China ranks fourth to the US.
Some analysts believe face-to-face talks between Chinese and US leaders promote better mutual understanding.
International Affairs Analyst Pan Zhenqiang said, "Now Sino-U.S. relations are more matured than before. Therefore, regular exchanges of high-ranking officials of both countries are normal. Dick Cheney's visit could be just part of this interaction among high-ranking officials."
But both countries acknowledge existing differences.
China regards the new US policy to fingerprint Chinese citizens applying for US visas as unfair and discriminative. And the US has frequently sought a UN resolution criticizing China's human rights record.
Experts say as long as the two countries strengthen cooperation and solve diplomatic disputes with dialogue, the healthy development of Sino-US relations will forge ahead undeterred.
Vice President of China Institute of International Studies Ruan Zongze said, "These things can be small as well as can be large. They can play elective role between Sino-U.S. relations. China and the U.S do have some disputes. But at the same time, we share common ground and common interest as time passes."
The Taiwan issue is the most sensitive one Cheney will deal with on his visit. Cross-Straits relations are strained after Taiwan's referendum and the chaotic local election. Though the One China policy and Three Joint Communiqu茅s are core principles of the Sino-US relationship, China doesn't want the US sending the wrong signals to Taiwan.
It is predicted that 3 issues will highlight Cheney's trip to China, -- Taiwan, human rights, and trade. But before leaving the US, Cheney expressed concern over nuclear proliferation in Northeast Asia. As a result, the Korean Peninsula's nuclear crisis is also expected to be discussed, due to China's vital role at the negotiating table.
Editor:Zhang Source:CCTV.com
