President George W. Bush greeted Chinese President Hu Jintao at the White House on Thursday with direct appeals for reducing trade imbalances and more help in easing nuclear standoffs with North Korea and Iran. Hu promised to work for closer U.S. ties on several issues, particularly economic problems. Reciting a list of U.S. concerns, Bush stressed that China should do more to make its currency more flexible, noted “the importance of human rights,” and urged China and Taiwan “to avoid confrontational or provocative acts.” Hu responded to Bush's list of concerns with a vow to help diplomatically to ease nuclear tensions with North Korea and Iran. He also said in general terms he would promote human rights. The emphasis by both leaders on U.S.-Chinese differences was unusual for a White House welcoming ceremony. But, Bush said, “As the relationship between our nations grows and matures, we can be candid about our disagreements.” “We should respect each other as equals and promote closer exchanges and cooperation,” Hu said, speaking through a translator. He said that closer bilateral ties would “bring more benefits to our two peoples and to the people of the world.” Regarding Taiwan, Hu said China appreciates U.S. policy and warned that Taiwan would not be allowed to break away from China. He said the self-governing island “in an inalienable part of Chinese territory. We will continue to make every effort and endeavor with every sincerity to strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification of the two sides.” “We will work with our Taiwan compatriots to work for the development of cross-straits relations. However, we will never allow anyone to let Taiwan secede from China by any means,” Hu stated.
