On September 23, 2008, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao met with former U.S. Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger.

Wen expressed sincere appreciation for the outstanding contributions Kissinger had made to the establishment of China-U. S. diplomatic ties and the development of bilateral relations and described him as an old trustworthy friend of the Chinese people. "Despite ups and downs, great achievements have been made in China-U.S. relations over the past three decades since the two countries forged diplomatic ties," Wen said, adding that it not only brings great benefits to both sides, but also has a far-reaching impact on the world. The two countries need to enhance cooperation to safeguard the world peace and stability and address challenges in economy, finance, energy and environment, said Wen. China is willing to maintain and develop the constructive and cooperative relations with the United States whoever becomes the next U.S. president, he noted, adding that this is in keeping with the historical trend and is also conducive to the two peoples and the world at large.

Kissinger recalled the achievements China has made since his first visit to the country in 1971. He also pointed out that China has overcome the earthquake and other serious natural disasters and successfully hosted the Beijing Olympic Games, adding that these achievements are admirable. Kissinger said the U.S.-China relationship is of great significance to the two countries and the world at large. The cooperation between the two countries is needed to address various problems and challenges in the current world. The United States should have a long-term and global vision to develop sustainable cooperative relations with China, which is the mainstream of the U.S.-China relations, Kissinger said. Such a mainstream should be maintained whoever becomes the next U.S. president, he noted, pledging to continue to spare no efforts to promote the development of U.S.-China relations.