Americas

Gates optimistic about relations with China

(Agencies)
Updated: 2007-06-02 21:13

SINGAPORE - US Defence Secretary Robert Gates expressed optimism Saturday about relations between the United States and China.

In a speech to an international security conference here, Gates downplayed past US rhetoric on China's military might.

"And I believe there is reason to be optimistic about the US-China relationship."

Gates was speaking to regional security officials attending the Shangri-La Dialogue, a conference organised by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies, an independent think-tank.

His mild tone contrasted sharply with that taken by his predecessor Donald Rumsfeld, who used the same forum two years ago to sharply question China's intentions in building up its military.

A senior US defense official told reporters traveling with Gates that China has met or exceeded the military milestones identified two years ago, putting it on a path to become a force capable of thwarting US forces in the region.

But he said Gates decided to let the Pentagon report speak for itself, in part to encourage greater engagement and openness by China.

"We have increased military-to-military contacts between all levels of our militaries, most recently dramatised when General Pace sat in the cockpit of the top-of-the-line Chinese fighter during his last visit," Gates said.

"We obviously have a huge economic and trade relationship," he said, noting that if US retailer Wal-Mart were a country, it would be China's eighth largest trading partner.

"As we gain experience in dealing with each other, relationships can be forged that will build trust over time," he said.