U.S. hoping to utilize 'once in a decade' chance to augment ties with China

Washington, Feb 11(ANI): The US is gearing for a visit by Chinese Vice President Xi Jinping, who is expected to become the country's next leader, and use the once in a decade opportunity to augment its ties with Beijing.

The move comes in the wake of a heated White House race that is exerting pressure on US President Barack Obama to adopt a tough stance towards China.

The White House administration said it expects to zero in on some of the most contentious issues during a meeting between Obama and Jinping, The Wall Street Journal reports.

U.S. officials also hope to gain an insight into China's heir apparent's perspectives on issues like sanctions against Iran and currency and trade issues.

A session planned with opposition leader John Boehner would be significant, as he had criticized China for its human-rights policies and its role in international crises.

A senior Obama administration official said that while the U.S. and China would engage on a wide range of issues, the most important ones would be economic ones.

The US also hopes to take a stock of how China perceives the Pentagon's new strategic focus on the Far East.

The White House had hosted a visit by advocates of expanded human rights in China and called for improvements from Beijing.

Chinese leaders have also indulged in tough talk, with a senior official saying that Jinping's visit would address the U.S.-China "trust deficit."

Observers said that sweeping agreements are unlikely, in part due to political considerations both in the U.S. and China. (ANI)