On March 18, Vice-Premer Qian Qichen arrived in New York, starting his visit to the United States. This is the first visit paid by a Chinese leader to the United States since the new US administration was sworn into office.

Chinese Ambassador Yang Jiechi to the United States, Permanent Representative Wang Yingfan to the United Nations, Consul-General Zhang Hongxi in New York, Deputy Permanent Representative Shen Guofang to the United Nations and the local Chinese community representatives were at the airport to welcome Qian. US Deputy Secretary of State for East Pacific Affairs Darryl Johnson also came from Washington to New York to meet him on behalf of Secretary of State Mr. Powell.

It is learned that Qian will meet with representatives from the local business and Chinese communities in New York. He and the US leaders will focus deeply on China-US relations and international issues of mutual concern.