Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan on Thursday visited former US President George Bush at his home in Kennebunkport, Maine, speaking highly of his role in forging, maintaining and promoting the Sino-US friendship.

Conveying greetings from Chinese President Hu Jintao and other Chinese leaders, Tang hoped that the former US president will continue to contribute to the development of the bilateral ties which are faced with the opportunity of further improvement and development.

Bush said the exchange of visits between the two countries' heads of state later this year will be of great significance, and he wished these visits a success.

Tang also visited the State of Washington on Thursday. He noted that trade activities and friendly cooperation between China and the state of Washington have developed quickly over the recent years, saying that Boeing and Microsoft have become familiar household terms throughout China.

The state counselor also expressed his belief that the state of Washington and the city of Seattle, which boasts great capital, technology and management edge, could find wider market and more cooperation opportunities in China.

He hoped that the two sides could further friendship and expand cooperation.

Tang also visited Boeing Corp. Ltd on Friday.

Source: Xinhua