At a seminar sponsored by the Center for World Affairs Studies of Xinhua News Agency, Prueher reviewed the development of the two countries' relations in recent years.

Prueher said that the Bush administration views US-China relations as "too important" and "too rich," and believes that they should be "constructive relations on the basis of mutual respect."

Prueher said that he is confident in the prospects of the US- China relations.

Asia's population accounts for over 50 percent of the world's total, and given its economic development Asia is becoming increasingly important in the new century, Prueher said.

He said the Bush administration attaches great importance to its relationship with countries in the region, especially that with China.

Prueher said that the United States and China share common interests and can strengthen cooperation in such fields as trade and commerce, environmental protection, non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as cooperation in the United Nations and other international organizations.

The ambassador also exchanged views with participants on such issues as the US arms sales to Taiwan and US-China trade.

Prior to the seminar, Tian Congming, president of Xinhua News Agency, met with Prueher.

(Xinhua 03/08/2001)