Condi seeks cooperation with China

The Bush administration has moved away from viewing China as a "strategic competitor" and is seeking a "candid, cooperative" relationship with Beijing, building on common interests but recognizing "our considerable differences about values", Secretary of State-designate Condoleezza Rice told a Senate confirmation hearing. President Bush's nominee to become America's top diplomat said she would work to tighten ties with China while maintaining pressure over human rights issues. Analysts said the carefully prepared comments reflected the delicate line the Bush administration had to take if it is to win Beijing's support in reining in North Korea's nuclear program.