In Shanghai, Clinton Highlights US-China Trade Relations

US secretary of state makes comments on the eve of high-level economic and political talks in Beijing

23 May 2010

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, left, and Shanghai Mayor Han Zheng, right, speak during their meeting at China Pavilion at World Expo site Saturday, May 22, 2010 in Shanghai, China. (AP Photo/Eugene Hoshiko)

On the eve of high-level economic and political talks between the United States and China, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton highlighted the importance of strong economic and trade ties to both countries during a visit to China's commercial capital, Shanghai.

During a visit to a Boeing aircraft maintenance facility in Shanghai, Secretary Clinton focused on issues important to the U.S. side in this week's economic talks.

She said for trade to work in any economy, there must be a level playing field where domestic and international companies can compete freely.

The top U.S. diplomat said, "For example, transparency in rule making and standard setting, non-discrimination, fair access to sales to private sector and government purchasers alike - and the strong enforcement of intellectual property rights - are all vitally important. That's what drives innovation, benefits consumers, and ultimately stimulates broad-based and sustainable growth."

Saying it is a "win-win" situation for both countries, Clinton said American companies want to compete in China, selling goods made by American workers to Chinese consumers.