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BEIJING: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's visit to China is not expected to yield any major concrete agreements. But most analysts see it as an opportunity for both sides to gain a better understanding of each other.
Top of the agenda is finding a way to deal with the financial crisis – an opportunity for both sides to find common ground.
Some observers, however, foresee problems as Mrs Clinton may continue her hardline stance against China on the issue of human rights.
Professor Jin Canrong, deputy director at the Centre for American Studies, Renmin University of China, said: "What politicians say during campaigns often differ from their actions when they take office.
"Hillary had criticised China before, but her stance will be different. I think our Chinese leaders understand that."
But there are issues. US Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner almost drove a wedge between the two countries by calling China a "currency manipulator".
Teething problems between Beijing and the new US administration are also expected to remain. Aside from conflicts on human rights and trade, Beijing may need some time to figure out the psyche of its new American partner.
Nonetheless, Mrs Clinton's visit is an opportunity to set the tone for relations, at least for China.
"China will remind the Americans of the sensitivities of the Taiwan issue, even though tensions have loosened somewhat. It also sees climate change as a new opportunity for partnership with the US, rather than a discord," said Prof Jin.
But how much change can the former First Lady bring about with this visit?
Prof Jin said: "Obama wants to maintain good ties with different regions and his administration has covered key countries in Europe and the Pan Pacific.
"Asia is important as a fast-growing region. She's really here to help balance the interests of the administration. We should not exaggerate the significance of her visit."
- CNA/so
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