Xi: China, US should manage differences through dialogue

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China and the US should enhance communication and coordination on the main international and regional issues, Chinese President Xi Jinping told visiting US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Saturday.

He said both countries should respect each other's core interests and major concerns, and properly manage their differences and sensitive issues through dialogue and consultation.

Xi emphasized the two countries have far more common interests than differences, and that cooperation is the only correct choice.

This is Tillerson's second trip to Beijing since taking office in February. The issue of the Korean Peninsula is believed to be on the agenda during his visit, which would lay the groundwork for US President Donald Trump's planned visit to China in November.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R, front) meets with US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson (L, front) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, September 30, 2017. /Reuters Photo

"Currently the most important event in our bilateral relations is President Trump's visit to China in November," Xi told the US top diplomat.

"His visit will be a major opportunity for the development of China-US relations."

Xi said China-US relations have been developing steadily in general, and that he maintains good communication with Trump.

"I look forward to working with him to plan and facilitate the future development of China-US relations," Xi noted.

The Chinese president met his American counterpart during his visit to Florida in early April. They also exchanged views on bilateral ties and regional hotspot issues frequently through telephone calls and messages.

Tillerson said Trump is looking forward to his upcoming state visit to China, adding that the US attaches great importance to its relationship with China.

The US would like to strengthen mutual trust, communication, and pragmatic cooperation in various areas with China, he said.

The two countries should make joint efforts to address international and regional challenges, Tillerson stressed.

Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi and Foreign Minister Wang Yi also met with Tillerson on Saturday.

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