Washington (CNN) -- Chinese President Hu Jintao wrapped up his visit to the U.S. capital Thursday, telling an audience of American business leaders that Beijing is seeking closer ties and greater trust with the United States on a range of issues. He sought to assuage concerns about China's rising economic and military power, declaring that his country "will never seek hegemony or pursue an expansionist policy." The Chinese leader was unapologetic, however, about Beijing's position on the politically sensitive status of Tibet and Taiwan, calling it a matter of Chinese territorial integrity and a "core interest." We are building "a socialist country under the rule of law," he asserted. He said relations between Washington and Beijing need to be governed by a belief in "equality" and "mutual respect."
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Hu Jintao tells business leaders China is not pursuing an expansionist policy
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Congressional leaders discuss human rights and economic issues with Hu
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The session follows Hu's meeting Wednesday with President Obama
"I have been very candid with President @placeholder about these issues," he told reporters, and "occasionally, they are a source of tension."