Xi recalls first trip to US

President Xi Jinping recalled his first trip to the United States when addressing a welcome dinner by friendly organizations in the US on Nov 15.

In 1985, Xi, then a county leader of Zhengding, Hebei province, started his first visit to the United States in San Francisco, which formed his first impression of the country.

Much like any other visitor to the city, Xi, a young man in his early 30s, had his picture taken with the Golden Gate Bridge.

Xi then traveled to Muscatine in Iowa to look into farm technology, and there he had a homestay at the Dvorchaks.

"I still remember their address--2911 Bonnie Drive. That was my first face-to-face contact with the Americans. The days I spent with them are unforgettable. For me, they represent America," Xi recalled in his speech.

"I am convinced that once opened, the door of China-US relations cannot be shut again. Once started, the cause of China-US friendship cannot be derailed halfway," Xi said. "The tree of our peoples' friendship has grown tall and strong; and it can surely withstand the assault of any wind or storm."