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
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The two leaders acknowledged continuing differences on human rights, but pledged to keep working on the matter in a "frank and candid way," according to @placeholder.
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During a news conference with reporters Wednesday, Obama said he had received a promise from Hu to establish a more "level playing field" for @placeholder trade.
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@placeholder also defended his administration's decision to engage with China despite differences over hot-button issues such as human rights.
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"I have been very candid with President @placeholder about these issues," he told reporters, and "occasionally, they are a source of tension."
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But @placeholder, he indicated, should respect the principle of "noninterference" in domestic affairs.