On December 16, 2010, State Councilor Dai Bingguo met in Diaoyutai State Guesthouse with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg. The two sides exchanged views on the bilateral, regional and international issues of common concern, including China-US relations and the current situation in the Korean Peninsula.

Dai said that at present China-US relations in general maintain a positive trend of development. China expects to work with the US to enhance mutual trust, expand common consensus, deepen cooperation, properly handle relevant sensitive issues, eliminate interference and push forward the positive, cooperative and comprehensive bilateral relationship on the correct track based on mutual respect and mutual benefit.

He noted that want easing and no tension, want dialogue and no confrontation and want peace and no war are the strong desire and appeal of the people in both North and South of the Peninsula and the international community. China always holds a highly responsible attitude and plays a constructive role on the Peninsula issue. We believe the top priority at the moment for all parties concerned is to make concerted efforts to avoid further escalation of tension on the Peninsula. The six-party talks are the only correct and effective way to solving the Peninsula issue and building permanent tranquility in Northeast Asia. As a result of cooperation among all parties concerned, the September 19 joint statement is hard-won and should be implemented completely. China and the US should strengthen coordination and cooperation and boost the resumption of the negotiation process including the South-North dialogue as soon as possible in order to maintain peace and stability in the Peninsula and Northeast Asia.

Steinberg expressed admiration on China’s long-term important role on the Peninsula issue. He said that the US is committed to building a positive, cooperative and comprehensive relationship and expects to step up dialogue and cooperation with China in all fields. The US pays close attention to the current situation in the Korean Peninsula and believes it is in the common interest of both sides to maintain peace and stability and realize denuclearization of the Peninsula. It will continue to join hands with China to boost the process of contacts and talks including the South-North dialogue.