On the morning of October 25, 2004, President Hu Jintao met at the Great Hall of the People with the US Secretary of State Colin Powell.

Hu said that in recent years the overall China-US relations keep advancing, bringing about tangible benefits to the people of both countries and promoting the peace, stability and development of Asia-Pacific and the world as a whole. Facts show that so long as the two countries proceed from a strategic and long-term point of view, follow the principles set in the three Sino-US Joint Communiqués, constantly expand the convergence of interests of both countries and appropriately handle issues of common concern, China-US relations will surely enjoy healthy and stable development. China is ready to join hands with the US to firmly adhere to the general direction of bilateral ties, promote exchanges and cooperation in various fields and make relentless efforts to enhance development of the constructive cooperative relations between the two countries.

Hu pointed out that currently the situation across the Taiwan Straits remains complex and sensitive. The activities of separatists seeking "Taiwan independence" are the root cause of tense cross-strait relations and the most serious threat to the peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits. Opposition to "Taiwan independence" and curbing the risky acts of separatists seeking "Taiwan independence" comply with the common interests of China and the US and the countries in Asia-Pacific as well. He admires that the US has reiterated repeatedly that it adheres to the one-China policy, observes the three Joint Communiqués and opposes "Taiwan independence". He hopes that the US can develop a clear understanding of the nature and severe danger of the separatists seeking "Taiwan independence" and translate its commitments on the Taiwan issue into real action, which is critical to safeguarding the peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits and in Asia-Pacific and the healthy and stable development of China-US relations.

Powell said that over the past almost four years US-China relations have achieved great progress on the basis of mutual respect and cooperation. Both sides have maintained close contact at all levels. President Bush and the US government attach great importance to the development of mutual beneficial cooperative relations between the two countries and the constructive role China plays in such major international issues as anti-terrorism and Darfur of Sudan. The US will, as always, continue to resolutely support the one-China policy and oppose any activities leading to "Taiwan independence".

During the meeting Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing is also present.