Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi told U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice that China is grateful to the quake relief aid the U.S. government and people offered.

At the beginning of their official talks in Beijing, Yang expressed appreciation for Rice's brief trip to the quake area in China's Sichuan province.

He told Rice that the Chinese people will win a full victory infighting against the disaster with the guidance of the government, the efforts of the whole nation and the support from the international community including the United States.

Rice said she was very impressive to visit people in the quake area, adding what impressed her most is the sprit of the people there.

Yang said he is glad to exchange views with Rice on further improving China-U.S. ties and boosting cooperation.

Before heading for the Chinese capital on Sunday afternoon, Rice paid a four-hour trip to China's quake-hit Sichuan Province, extending condolences for people there.

(Xinhua News Agency June 29, 2008)