On March 20, 2005, Premier Wen Jiabao of the State Council met with US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice in the Great Hall of the People.

Wen said that at present the overall China-US relations develop soundly and bilateral cooperation in all fields remains fruitful. So long as both sides look at and address the bilateral ties from the strategic height and long-term perspective China-US relations will gain greater development during the second term of President Bush, which is not only in the fundamental interest of the two peoples but also conducive to world peace and development.

Wen stressed that the most serious threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits comes from the secessionist activities of the "Taiwan separatist forces". The Anti-Secession Law aims at curbing the forces seeking "Taiwan independence" and hence is conducive to the stability and progress of the cross-strait relations and will help maintain peace and development in the Asia-Pacific region. He expressed hope that the US could understand, respect and support China's legislative efforts.

Economic and trade cooperation is a major part of China-US relations. Both sides should improve the existing bilateral coordination mechanisms, take each other's concerns into consideration, properly handle conflicts and friction and achieve a mutually beneficial and win-win result based on the principles of "equality, mutual benefit and development", said Wen.

Rice noted that her visit to China shortly after she took the position of the US Secretary of State demonstrates the US government attaches great importance to furthering the US-China constructive and cooperative relations. She said that the US hopes to see a confident and strong China and is willing to solve bilateral conflicts through constructive means based on mutual respect and strengthen bilateral cooperation in various fields. She reiterated that the US adheres to the one-China policy, abides by the three China-US joint communiqués and wishes to see the peaceful solution of the Taiwan question.

Wen, at inquiry, introduced to Rice China's economic and social progresses, exchange rate policies and protection of intellectual property rights. Rice said that the sustained economic growth of China creates market, opportunities and vigor to the world and the US welcomes the constant development of Chinese economy.

Both sides also exchanged opinions on issues related with the WTO Doha round negotiations.

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing was present at the meeting.