China's Xi says to build new relations w

19/1/2017 3:07

        China will build a new model of relations with the United States as part of its creation of a "circle of friends" around the world, President Xi Jinping said in a speech at the United Nations in Geneva.
        
        His speech, the finale of a Swiss trip that included a state visit and topping the bill at the World Economic Forum in Davos, was intended to highlight a Chinese interest in playing a cooperative role in international affairs.
        
        Human rights groups and Western governments have accused China of widespread human rights abuses. Beijing has also been accused by smaller neighbours of expansionist ambitions in the South China Sea but denies such charges.
        
        U.S. President-elect Donald Trump was particularly critical of China during his election campaign, accusing it of exploiting the United States economically. He also raised concern by taking a telephone call after his election from the president of Taiwan which Beijing regards as a renegade province.
        Xi called for unity on climate change and the fight against terrorism, as well as nuclear disarmament.