Chinese premier urges U.S. to constructively handle disputes

17 May 2015, People’s Daily (China)

BEIJING, May 16 — Chinese Premier Li Keqiang urged the United Statesto handle and control disputes with China in a constructive manner, and do more to promote the mutual trust and regional cooperation. He told U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry that China was ready, on the basis of mutual respect and equality, to strengthen exchanges and communication with the United States, increase coordination on the bilateral ties, major international and regional issues and global challenges, and realize inclusiveness and cooperation in Asia-Pacific and broader areas.

Kerry, on his part, said the two countries should commit to common development instead of competing with each other. The two sides should strengthen communication and coordination through mechanisms such as the Strategic and Economic Dialog (SED). Li said China will continue to reform and open up. He called on the two sides to speed up the negotiation on investment agreement, promote negotiation on negative list with constructive efforts and try to achieve a high-level and balanced result. The two sides could also cooperate with the third parties, Li noted.

Kerry echoed Li saying the two sides should step up the negotiation. With regard to the climate change, Li said this is an important area for the bilateral cooperation. China is a developing country and has made unremitting efforts to cope with the climate change. China was ready to work with the United States to strengthen policy communication, abide by the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and implement the consensus already reached and commitment, Li noted.

Li hoped developed countries could increase technology transfer and experience sharing to help developing countries cope with climate change. Kerry agreed with Li that the two countries should strengthen cooperation in this regard. He also voiced hope for more cooperation in areas including Africa’s health, education and infrastructure. Li and Kerry also discussed international and regional issues of common concern.

The meeting was held in downtown Beijing after Kerry’s talks with Foreign Minister Wang Yi. State Councilor Yang Jiechi also met Kerry on Saturday afternoon. President Xi Jinping will meet Kerry on Sunday.