Common interests between China, U.S. bigger than differences: Premier Li

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang speaks at a press conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, March 16, 2016. (Xinhua/Chen Jianli)

BEIJING, March 16 -- The common interests between China and the United Statesare bigger than their differences, Premier Li Keqiang said Wednesday.

China became the biggest trading partner of the United States last year, with the trading volume reaching nearly 560 billion U.S. dollars, Li said, noting that this shows "the common interests far outweigh their differences."

He made the remarks at a press conference after the conclusion of the annual legislative session.

For the healthy development of the China-U.S. relations, the two countries shall adhere to the principle of equality and mutual benefit, he said.

He said that the two countries are negotiating a bilateral investment treaty (BIT), adding that China will give American investors wider access to the Chinese market and it is hoped that United States will do the same.

There are around 100 dialogue and exchange mechanisms between the two countries and the common interests will keep expanding as long as "we act in good faith and properly manage the differences," he said.

"Deepened China-U.S. cooperation will not only benefit the two countries, but the whole world," he said.

The premier said that the two countries have always seen win-win economic and trade relations and the China-U.S. relations will move forward no matter who wins the U.S. presidential election in November.