- (Agencies) -- The United States is seeking a "candid,
cooperative" relationship with China that builds on common interests
but recognizes differences in values, Secretary of State-designate Condoleezza
Rice.
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- In an opening statement at her US Senate confirmation
hearings, Rice signaled that President George W. Bush's administration
would work to tighten ties with China despite criticism of Beijing's human
rights record.
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- "We are building a candid, cooperative and constructive
relationship with China that embraces our common interests but still recognizes
our considerable differences about values," Rice told the Senate Foreign
Relations Committee.
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- Her prepared remarks reflected the delicate task facing
Washington in dealing with the Asian giant the administration once considered
a "strategic competitor" but now needs to help solve the North
Korea nuclear issue.
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- Analysts said Bush would have to keep a wary eye on China
as it expands its political and economic influence not only in Asia, but
in Latin America, Africa and Europe.
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- But several thorny issues loom in Bush's second term,
including trade, Taiwan and the potential lifting of Europe's 15-year arms
embargo on China.
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- Still, Rice was optimistic, saying: "In Asia, we
have moved beyond the false assumption that it is impossible to have good
relations with all of Asia's powers."
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- Rice made clear the United States' hope of consolidating
its influence in the region, following up on the goodwill generated by
US military help and financial aid for victims of last month's tsunami
disaster.
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- "Our Asian alliances have never been stronger, and
we will use that strength to help secure the peace and prosperity of the
region," she said, calling Japan, South Korea and Australia "key
partners in our efforts to deter common threats and spur economic growth."
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- The outgoing national security adviser called for world
unity in insisting that North Korea, as well as Iran, "abandon their
nuclear weapons ambitions and choose instead the path of peace."
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- Rice hailed the peaceful, democratic transfer of power
in two Asian Muslim countries, Malaysia and Indonesia, but vowed to work
for reform in Myanmar and North Korea.
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- She said the United States was cooperating with India
on a range of economic and security issues, while working with Pakistan
"as a vital ally in the war on terror and a state in transition towards
a more moderate and democratic future."
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