Xi meets Obama in Paris ahead of major UN climate conference

Chinese President Xi Jinping shakes hands with US President Barack Obama during their meeting at the start of the climate summit in Paris November 30, 2015. [Photo/Xinhua]

RIGHT DIRECTION OF TIES

The two heads of state's meeting in Paris, which came after Xi's state visit to the United States in September, provided an opportunity for the two presidents to discuss bilateral relations and how they can cooperate on vital issues impacting the world.

Xi told Obama that at present, the world economy is recovering slowly and terrorism is on the rise, and against this background, it is very important for China and the United States to be firmly committed to the right direction of building a new model of major-country relations, and follow the principles of non-confrontation, non-conflict, mutual respect and win-win cooperation, in order to carry forward practical exchanges and cooperation at the bilateral, regional and global levels.

Such endeavors would include enhancing macro-economic policy coordination, Xi said, adding that countries should pay special attention to stable growth, oppose protectionism, and maintain an open, transparent and inclusive multi-lateral trade system.

He called upon the two sides to conclude a bilateral investment treaty soon, providing a fair environment for investors of both sides.

The two countries should also work together to combat all forms of terrorism, Xi said, noting that they should maintain strategic communication and coordination and make more efforts to solve vital issues concerning the region and the world.

Obama said his country is willing to work with the Chinese side.

"We've also been able to set up a number of key forums for us to find additional areas of cooperation through our Strategic & Economic Dialogues and our military-to-military exchanges," he said. "We've been able to enhance security, help to strengthen the global economy, and manage conflicts in various hotspots around the world."

The US president also expressed his condolences over the killing of a Chinese hostage by the extremist group Islamic State, saying the incident "indicates this is a threat for all of us."

"China is invested in helping to resolve global problems. And all of us, including the United States, benefit," said Obama.