U.S. Chamber Encouraged by U.S.-China Dialogue

But Says Results Are What Counts

WASHINGTON, D.C.-The U.S. Chamber of Commerce encouraged U.S. Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson and Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi to build on the candid, constructive talks held in Beijing as part of the first Strategic Economic Dialogue (SED).

"The opening round of this Dialogue is an important first step in tackling critical issues in our bilateral relationship," said U.S. Chamber President and CEO Tom Donohue. "We look forward to the second round in May in Washington and strongly encourage both sides to use the Dialogue to produce tangible, measurable results."

The Chamber believes the Dialogue can be an effective means of addressing issues like exchange rate flexibility, intellectual property rights protection, investment, the further opening of Chinese markets to American products and services, increasing the role of consumption in the Chinese economy, energy security, and providing health care and a social safety net for aging populations.

"This Dialogue, at the highest levels of the U.S. and Chinese governments, is the best opportunity for both sides to aid China's successful integration into the global economy," said Donohue. "We are encouraged that significant efforts are underway to address the important and challenging issues in this relationship. But, at the end of the day, it's results that count."

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

www.uschamber.com

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