In preparation for Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to the United States next month, top officials of both countries have aired their disagreements over the past year, the U.S. national security adviser said.
"We have been able to discuss frankly our differences, which we both acknowledge need to be addressed effectively," Susan Rice said in Beijing, where she met Friday with Xi and China's top diplomat, Yang Jiechi.
Rice did not elaborate on those differences. But tensions have flared intermittently over China's territorial claims in the South China Sea, as well as over human rights and traded allegations of Internet hacking.
Rice's visit also comes as stock markets around the world have seen unusual volatility linked to the state of the Chinese economy.
In her meeting Friday with Yang, the security adviser also had cited progress in the relationship. The Associated Press said Rice pointed to collaborations in fighting Ebola and climate change, for example.
Xi is set to come to the United States in late September to pay a state visit to President Barack Obama in Washington and to address the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The White House has said the interactions between U.S. and Chinese officials are focused on building a more productive relationship between the two countries.
Xi said he looks forward to continuing a dialogue with Obama.
"We stand ready to further promote our practical cooperation, effectively manage the sensitive issues between us and strengthen the friendship between the people of both countries," Xi said.
The talks also are likely to focus on improving the relationship between the two nations' military leadership.
Yang told reporters after his meeting with Rice that China wants to make sure the president's visit to Washington is a complete success.
Obama visited Xi in November. At that time, the two leaders announced a landmark agreement to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
