Hu meets US business leaders

After arriving in Hawaii, President Hu Jintao met with US business leaders from a broad section of industries, to exchange views on expanding China-US trade ties. He also encouraged US businesses to play a larger role in promoting bilateral trade cooperation. Gathering in warm, sunny Honolulu, President Hu Jintao and representatives from US business circles, conducted intensive exchanges on bilateral trade and economic cooperation. US business leaders have labeled the Sino-US trade relation as the world’s most important in the 21st century. They said they are willing to continue their efforts in maintaining its strong momentum, and expanding investment in China. They also shared views on issues of copy right protection, and increasing Chinese investment in the US. President Hu spoke highly on the role of US businesses in enhancing ties and promoting regional cooperation. Hu says opportunities have outweighed challenges. China’s increasing demand for imports has provided the US with a huge market to revitalize its manufacturing industry. Chinese enterprises are also willing to expand their investment in the US. Meanwhile, cooperation in new areas such as clean energy, space technology and infrastructure has also provided new potential for growth. Hu called on the US to loosen its restrictions on high-tech exports to China, which would help lessen the trade unbalance and create more jobs in the US. He says deepening China-US cooperation is not only beneficial to both countries, but also critical to the recovery of the global economy. Regarding trade frictions, Hu says the two sides should deal with disputes according to market laws and WTO rules. He says China strongly opposes trade protectionism and politicizing trade issues.