Obama: Sino-US Ties Have Grown Stronger Recently

U.S. President Barack Obama said Thursday that Sino-U.S. relations have strengthened over the past several years, adding both sides are discussing not only bilateral issues but also global matters together.

He said this ahead of summit talks with Chinese President Hu Jintao in Seoul in the afternoon.

“The two countries, which are nuclear powerhouses that spearhead the world, and economic powers, have special obligations to address the issue of guaranteeing strong, balanced and sustainable economic growth, as well as the matter of nuclear proliferation,” Obama said, urging Beijing’s cooperation.

In response, Hu said, “China is ready to cooperate with the U.S.,” adding, “China has the intent to boost dialogue, cooperation and collaboration to improve bilateral relations toward more positive, cooperative and comprehensive ties.”

“I believe that the G-20 Seoul Summit will generate positive results,” he added in presenting a positive outlook for the summit.

“I am very grateful to President Obama for inviting me to visit the U.S. early next year,” Hu said. “I hope that my visit to the U.S. will prove successful, and I believe as such.”

Foreign media reported that the two countries are locking horns over Washington’s second round of monetary easing and Beijing’s refusal to allow the yuan’s appreciation, with attention on what agreement they will reach.

Japan’s Kyoto News Agency said the two leaders could also have had far-reaching discussions over the nuclear programs of North Korea and Iran and a Sino-Japanese territorial dispute.

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