Chinese President Xi Jinping has said China-U.S. relations are at a critical historical juncture, and called on the two sides to bring bilateral relations back to the right track of sound and steady development. 

The National Committee on U.S.-China Relations hosted its 2021 Gala Dinner on Tuesday. President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden sent congratulatory letters to the event. Chinese Ambassador to the U.S. Qin Gang and Chairman of the National Committee Jacob Lew read out the respective letters. 

In his letter, Xi expressed his appreciation and recognition to the Committee and its members for their long-time dedication to the growth of China-U.S. relations and to the exchanges and cooperation between the countries in various areas.  

He pointed out the China-U.S. relationship is among the most important bilateral relationships in the world today.  

"Whether our two countries, the world's biggest developing country and the biggest developed country and two permanent members of the UN Security Council, can handle our relations well bears on the fundamental interests of the two countries and peoples, and matters to the future of the world," Xi wrote. 

Noting both countries will gain from cooperation and lose from confrontation, the Chinese president stressed that cooperation is the only right choice.  

President Xi also stressed that following the principles of mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation, China stands ready to work with the United States to enhance exchanges and cooperation across the board, jointly address regional and international issues as well as global challenges and, in the meantime, properly manage differences. 

"I hope the Committee and all those who care for and support the development of China-U.S. relations will reinforce confidence, keep up your good work, and contribute even more wisdom and strength to the advancement of China-U.S. friendship to the benefit of people in our two countries and around the world," he added. 

Stressing the world is at an inflection point in history, Biden, in his letter to the Gala, said from tackling the COVID-19 pandemic to addressing the existential threat of the climate crisis, the relationship between the United States and China has global significance. 

Solving these challenges and seizing opportunities will require the broader international community to come together as everyone does their part to build a safe, peaceful and resilient future, he added. 

Biden also hailed the National Committee on U.S.-China Relations' role of promoting cooperation between the United States and China and helping foster mutual understanding and constructive conversation to help find common ground. 

"I am grateful for your dedication to strengthening the bonds between the people of our two countries. Through the advocacy of organizations like yours, we can seek greater connectivity and advancement of interests that affect our countries and the world," said the U.S. president.