BEIJING - China again expressed willingness to work with the United States to build a new type of relations between major countries, saying it is normal for both sides to have disagreements in their relationship.

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Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei made the comment at a regular news briefing when asked to comment on a speech by US Secretary of State John Kerry in a lecture in Washington.

Kerry promoted the importance of enhancing ties with China on Tuesday and expressed concerns about tension in the South China Sea ahead of President Barack Obama's China visit next week.

"We have noticed Kerry's speech. The 35-year history of diplomatic relations between China and the United States has fully proved that the two countries share important mutual interests and a wide scope for cooperation," Hong said.

Both sides should and can cooperate more at the bilateral, regional and global levels to safeguard and contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region and the world, he said.

Meanwhile, he noted the differences in history and culture, social systems and economic development. "It is normal for both to have some disagreements," he said, calling on the two sides to resolve them constructively through respect and seeking common ground while putting aside differences.

China is willing to work with the United States to earnestly implement the consensus reached between the two heads of state. "We are willing to promote building a new model of major-country relations featuring non-conflict and non-confrontation, mutual respect and win-win cooperation to benefit the two peoples and the world," Hong said.

US President Barack Obama will pay a state visit to China and attend the 22nd Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders' Meeting in Beijing from Nov. 10 to 12.

The leaders of the two countries will exchange views on Sino-US ties as well as major international and regional issues of common concern. "We welcome President Obama's visit and hope for positive results," the spokesman added.

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