Bush: US-China ties 'important' and 'good'
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2005-11-09 07:14

Bush will make his third visit to China on Nov. 19, a trip that will also take him to Japan, South Korea and Mongolia. He will also attend the 13th APEC Economic Leaders Meeting in Busan, South Korea.

Talking about his trip to the Asian countries, he said that the US relations with Japan, South Korea, China and Mongolia are excellent. "We don't always agree on every issue, but they (relations) are very strong," he added.

"This is a chance to continue to advance those relationships," he said.

US sticks to one-China policy

Bush said that the United States will adhere to its one-China policy and does not support "Taiwan independence."

"Our policy has been consistent from day one, which is one China, three commmuniques and that we do not support independence (of Taiwan)," Bush said.

When asked what the United States can do in preventing the secessionist forces in Taiwan from moving toward independence and in maintaining peace and stability in the region, Bush said that "one thing the United States can do is be consistent in its policy" in dealing with the Taiwan question.

He noted that he was "heartened when we see dialogue begin to take place" across the Taiwan Strait.

"That's a positive development and I'll continue to encourage that dialogue," the US president said.

However, Bush also said that his administration supports the "Taiwan Relations Act."

China has always termed the act as a severe interference with its internal affairs.