US Defence Secretary Robert Gates says there is no reason for China and the United States to be adversaries. Gates said on US public television’s Newshour yesterday that he is eager to explore what he calls “common interests” between the United States and China. He said these interests include Iran’s and North Korea’s nuclear programmes, piracy and fighting terrorism.

Gates said, finding ways for the US and Chinese militaries to work together would lead to opportunities for both sides to build stronger relations. Gates plans to leave Saturday for his first official visit to China since 2007.

China cut military relations with the United States last year to protest US weapons sales to Taiwan. US officials are eager to get those relations back on track.

US officials have expressed concern that China is becoming more militarily aggressive in the Pacific, including plans for more sophisticated long-range weapons, military exercises, and disputes with other Asian countries over island chains.