US-China differences far outweighed by common interests: Carter

WASHINGTON -- Former American President Jimmy Carter has stressed present differences between the U.S. and China are far outweighed by common interests, and their cooperation benefits not only the two countries but also the world as a whole.

Carter visited Beijing, Shanghai, Qingdao in east China's Shandong Province, as well as Xian, a historical city in northwest China's Shaanxi Province, during his Sept. 1-10 China tour to commemorate the 35th anniversary of the normalization of the U.S.- China diplomatic ties, in which he played a key role together with former Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping.

"The primary purpose of this visit ... was to enhance understanding between our two countries and to promote collaboration between The Carter Center and our primary contacts in China," Carter wrote in a recently-published report on his China trip.

He mentioned that recent polls indicated that deep suspicion and differences exist between the two countries despite the remarkable progress in improving the bilateral ties over the past 35 years.

"There has been a tremendous surge in China's economic strength and worldwide diplomatic involvement during the past 35 years, since normalization of relations with the United States and simultaneous implementation of 'reform and opening up' in China. This creates an inevitable competitive relationship between the two great powers," he noted.

Carter also recalled a "pleasant" journey to China, during which he was greeted with warm reception and hospitality at every stop by Chinese hosts.

"All our public events were warm and cordial, and throughout our trip there were frequent celebrations of my upcoming 90th birthday, the 110th anniversary of Deng Xiaoping's birth, the 35th year of normal diplomatic relations, and 65 years after my first visit to China and the founding of the People's Republic of China. The beginning of the Harvest Festival enhanced the celebrations," he wrote.

In Beijing, Carter attended "an especially frank and productive third forum on U.S.-China relations" and a large event in commemoration of the 35th anniversary of normal relations of the two countries, with Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao as co-host, both held at the Great Hall of the People.