Obama vows 'candid' talks with China's Xi, raises rights

Obama vows 'candid' talks with China's Xi, raises rights

WASHINGTON - Agence France-Presse

President Barack Obama escorts Chinese President Xi Jinping to an official state arrival ceremony for the Chinese President, Friday, Sept. 25, 2015, on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington. AP Photo

US President Barack Obama said on Sept.25 that he and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping must address their differences "candidly," specifically raising the importance of protecting human rights.

"Even as our nations cooperate, I believe -- and I know you agree -- that we must address our differences candidly," Obama said as he welcomed Xi to the White House with full state honors.
 
"The United States will always speak out on behalf of fundamental truths. We believe nations are more successful and the world makes more progress when our companies compete on a level-playing field, when disputes are resolved peacefully and when the universal human rights of all people are upheld."