BEIJING, March 21 -- Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong on Friday met in Beijing with Florence Fang, founding member of the 100,000 Strong Found.

Liu lauded Fang's commitment to China-U.S. friendly exchanges, China's reunification and China's education.

Liu commended the foundation's efforts in helping more American students to study in China.

In November 2009, U.S. President Barack Obama announced the "100,000 Strong" initiative, a national effort to increase the number and diversify the composition of American students studying in China.

Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton officially launched the initiative in May 2010 in Beijing.

The initiative has transitioned to an independent, non-profit organization known as the 100,000 Strong Foundation.

Liu encouraged Fang to make more contribution to boosting China-U.S. people-to-people exchanges and bilateral relations.