US-China co-op crucial in difficult times: Kissinger

Updated: 2011-10-18 17:09

(Xinhua)

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NEW YORK - The cooperation and strategic trust between the United States and China are critically important in times of difficulty, former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger said here Monday.

"The future of the world depends on the relationship between China and the US," he said at the 45th Anniversary Gala Dinner of the National Committee on US-China Relations. "China and the US should further seek common interest for the world peace and security."

Despite the different voices in the United States now, it is important to remember that since US President Richard Nixon's historic 1972 visit to China, all the US administrations "have pursued a policy of cooperation with China," the veteran diplomat said.

Steve Orlins, president of the National Committee on US-China Relations, echoed by quoting Chinese Chairman Mao Zedong to illustrate the importance of US-China cooperation.

"Chairman Mao said: 'In times of difficulty, we must not lose sight of our achievements, we must see the bright future, and we must lift up our courage,'" Orlins said at the gala.

The cooperation and strategic trust between the two nations are of vital importance given that "the anti-China sentiment still remains part of US political and public discourse," added Orlins, who has served as the committee's president since May 2005.

The importance also results from the fact that "some elected leaders think China is the primary cause of job loss in America rather than increases in productivity and technological innovation," he said.

"These are our difficult times," he said. "As I think about the challenges lying ahead, I recognize as all of you do, that our relationship with China will determine the world we leave to our children."

Chinese President Hu Jintao and US President Barack Obama sent congratulatory letters respectively to the gala, emphasizing the importance of a healthy bilateral relationship in shaping the 21st century.

The event also honored US energy giant Chevron and The Walt Disney Company for their contributions to a strong US-China bilateral relationship.

Established in 1966, the National Committee on US-China Relations is a non-partisan organization that seeks to promote better understanding between China and the United States.