PEACE & SECURITY | Creating a more stable world
08 August 2008
Bush Reflects on Solid Foundation of U.S.-China Relations
New U.S. Embassy opens in Beijing
Washington -- The new U.S. Embassy complex in Beijing reflects the solid foundation underpinning U.S.-Chinese relations, President Bush says, and "is a commitment to strengthen that foundation for years to come."
The $434 million, eight-story embassy is the second largest U.S. diplomatic post in the world after the new compound in Baghdad. The 500,000-square-foot (46,000-square-meter) structure is situated on 10 acres (four hectares) in the new diplomatic zone and is enclosed in free-standing, transparent and opaque glass. It was designed with traditional Chinese elements that include narrow walkways lined with bamboo that link diplomatic "neighborhoods."
"No doubt this is an impressive complex. To me it speaks of the importance of our relations with China," Bush said during dedication ceremonies at the embassy August 8. The dedication is set against the backdrop of the 2008 Summer Olympic Games in Beijing and the surrounding area.
"Tonight [August 8] the Olympic torch will light the home of an ancient civilization with a grand history," Bush said. "Thousands of years ago, the Chinese people developed a common language and unified a great nation. China became the center for art and literature, commerce and philosophy.
"China advanced the frontiers of knowledge in medicine, astronomy, navigation, engineering, and many other fields."
Bush also noted that the United States and China fought side by side in World War II. "We share a long history. The first American ship arrived in China just after the year [1783] we won our independence," he said.
"Today the United States and China have built a strong relationship, rooted in common interests. China has opened its economy and begun to unleash the entrepreneurial spirit of its people," Bush said. "America will continue to support China on the path toward a free economy."
In Washington, China opened its new 250,000-square-foot (23,000-square-meter) embassy a week ago. The glass and limestone compound, designed by the noted architect I.M. Pei's two sons, is the largest embassy in the city.
"The completion of the two new embassies not only reflects the good shape of our relationship, but also signals broad prospects for its further growth," Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said at the opening, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.
The new U.S. Embassy will have a staff of 700 representing more than 20 federal agencies. An annex is being planned that will provide an additional 70,000-square-feet (6,500-square-meters) of space for another 230 staff and 10 more federal agencies.
Bush said the relationship between the Chinese and Americans has been constructive, cooperative and candid.
"We'll continue to be candid about our mutual global responsibilities," he said. "We must work together to protect the environment and help people in the developing world; continue to be candid about our belief that all people should have the freedom to say what they think and worship as they choose.
"We strongly believe societies which allow the free expression of ideas tend to be the most prosperous and the most peaceful."
