Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao told visiting US Secretary of State Colin Powel Monday that meetings of Chinese and American leaders will help to advance Sino-US relations.

During his meeting with Powel, Wen said he appreciated the contributions the secretary of state had made to promoting Sino-US relations.

He said Powel's visit to China reminded him of the happy experience of his visit to the United States 11 months ago, where he had talks with Powel and met with US President George W. Bush.

The meeting has substantiated the principles guiding Sino-US relations and will play a positive role in advancing such relations, Wen said.

Powel said he was very happy to visit Beijing once again and Wen's US visit remained fresh in his memory. During that visit, President Bush reaffirmed the one-China policy.

Powel arrived in Beijing Sunday afternoon for a two-day visit to China. This is the second leg of his Asian tour. He had visited Japan before coming to Beijing and will also visit the Republic of Korea.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) shakes hands with visiting United States Secretary of State Colin Powell during a meeting in Beijing, Oct. 25, 2004. (Xinhua photo)

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) shakes hands with visiting United States Secretary of State Colin Powell during a meeting in Beijing Oct. 25, 2004.