US Pacific Command Commander-In-Chief Timothy Keating yesterday started his second visit to China in less than a year - a trip Chinese observers said would help strengthen military ties between the two countries.
"China has a positive attitude toward developing military relations with the US and hopes Keating's visit could further enhance understanding, expand consensus and boost cooperation, so as to promote the steady growth of military ties in the new year," a statement from the defense ministry said.
Keating first visited China in May last year as he took command in March. James Shinn, sworn in last Thursday as the new US Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and Pacific affairs, was also on the trip.
"We will work with our Chinese counterparts to increase understanding between our militaries, encourage cooperation on mutual security concerns, capitalize on gains we have realized and reduce chances for miscalculation," Keating said.
The four-day visit would also take Keating to Shanghai and Guangzhou, where he is scheduled to visit PLA military institutions and bases and participate in a seminar with Chinese military officials.
The commander's frequent visits to China are of crucial importance for the US in formulating its policies toward China, particularly in military relations, said Tao Wenzhao, a researcher with the Institute of American Studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences in Beijing.
When Gates visited China in November, the two countries agreed to open a direct military hotline, the first of its kind between China and any country at the defense ministry level.
After many years of friction, relations between China and the US have entered a period of strategic stability, said Chu Shulong, a professor of international studies at Tsinghua University.
"As long as the two sides can properly handle the Taiwan question and jointly deal with the threat posed by the Taiwan independence forces, bilateral ties will develop steadily in the coming years," Chu said.
（英语点津 Celene 编辑）
About the broadcaster:
Brendan is an Australian who has been involved in education and writing for over a decade. He has published most recently for the Tiger Airways Inflight magazine, The Bangkok Post, The Taipei Times and Japan's Hiroshima Outside Magazine. He holds a Masters Degree in Community Development and Management and has resided in China for over 3 years.
