Though China-U.S. relations went through some difficulties this year, the deep-rooted friendship between the two peoples, the sub-national connections and broad common interests will provide strong impetus for both sides to overcome the challenges, Chinese Consul General to Los Angeles Zhang Ping has said.
Zhang made the remarks during a reception hosted by the Chinese Consulate on Wednesday evening to celebrate the 69th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, which falls on Oct. 1.
He said as China and the United States are the two largest economies of the world and United Nations Security Council members, the two countries maintaining a healthy and stable relationship will have a direct impact on the well-being of the two countries' peoples, world peace and prosperity.
Zhang cited the relationship between China and the state of California as a good example illustrating the mutually beneficial nature of China-U.S. economic and trade relations and demonstrating the vigor and vitality of sub-national cooperation.
"China has become California's largest trading partner and third largest export destination for goods. Among the American states, California has attracted the most Chinese investment and tourists and has the biggest number of international students from China," he said.
Zhang showed confidence in the relationship between the two countries in his speech, saying he has found that in his consular district, "most American people still hold nice sentiments toward the Chinese people with sincere expectations for China-U.S. relations."
"Cooperation benefits both countries while confrontation can only hurt," he said, warning that China-U.S. relations are at a critical juncture at present.
"Dialogue and consultations based on equality, good faith and mutual respect are the only viable way out for solving the China-U.S. trade issues," he said.
About 300 guests attended Wednesday's reception.
