US to develop positive ties with China: Obama

Amidst war of words with Beijing on issues like Google, Taiwan and the Dalai Lama, the US president, Barack Obama, has expressed his determination to develop positive relationship with China.
    
Welcoming the new Chinese ambassador Zahng Yesui at the White House, Obama stressed that Washington and Beijing must "work together with international community on critical global issues including non-proliferation and pursuing sustained and balanced global growth," a statement released by the White House press secretary Robert Gibbs said.
    
"During the meeting the president stated his determination to further develop a positive relationship with China", the statement said.
    
Obama's comments were welcomed by Beijing as the two powers are seeking to overcome deep strains in their ties. A foreign ministry spokesman in Beijing Qin Gang while acknowledging the recent difficulties said "these were not in the interest of the two countries".
    
Ties between China and US have come under heavy strain recently over a number of issues including the value of yuan, arms sale to Taiwan, internet freedom and a visit to the White House by Tibetan spiritual leader Dalai Lama.
    
"A good Sino-US relationship is in the fundamental interest of the two countries and their people, and is beneficial to peace, stability and prosperity in Asia and the world," Qin said.
    
Obama's warm comments on China also come as the next round of high level Sino-US strategic and economic talks are expected to be held in Beijing in late May.