By Zhang Ming'ai

The US and China should focus on shared interests and transcend challenges, despite the fact that difficulties will inevitably arise between the two countries, the new US ambassador to China Jon M. Huntsman said in Beijing on August 22.

New US ambassador Jon M. Huntsman and his family meet the press at his new ambassador's residence in Beijing on August 22. [China.org.cn]

"In any relationship it's natural that parties will disagree," said Ambassador Huntsman, "but the hope is that is we'll be able to transcend our challenges, our difficulties and our disagreements...[and] focus primarily on peace, prosperity and security."

Huntsman said in his arrival statement that as the new ambassador to China, his top priority is to help lay the foundation for sustainable growth in Asia and the global economy, meaning "more jobs for Americans and Chinese, choices for consumers, and opportunities for US businesses." He also mentioned he wants to focus on "increased educational and cultural exchanges and an overall better mutual understanding of our two societies."

New US ambassador Jon M. Huntsman and his family meet the press at his new ambassador's residence in Beijing on August 22. [China.org.cn]

Huntsman expressed his hopes of expanding bilateral cooperation between the US and China on climate change, energy and the environment; enhancing global security and non-proliferation programs; and improving public health.

The new ambassador introduced his wife, Mary Kaye, and three daughters, Mary Anne, Gracie Mae and Asha. Huntsman and his wife adopted Gracie Mae from Yangzhou Province, China, and Asha from India.

(China.org.cn August 23, 2009)