Xinhua File Photo

HOUSTON, July 17 (Xinhua) -- A pragmatic and cooperative approach would best serve the mutual interests of the United States and China, a U.S. expert said here Wednesday.

At the U.S.-China Sister Cities Mayors' Summit, Charles Foster, chairman of the U.S.-China Partnerships, said that "while there are important issues that must be addressed, it must be done in the context of mutual respect and appreciation that both of our countries have fundamentally different histories and institutions."

Stressing that the U.S.-China relationship is "too big to fail," he said any effort by the United States to stop China or impede its growth is doomed -- "not only will not be successful, but in the long run, could be mutually destructive."

In regard to the trade tensions, he said while the U.S. additional tariffs can hurt China, they will neither prevent the Chinese economy from continuously expanding, nor prevent China from playing a growing role in world affairs.

He added that China's continued engagement in the international system is essential to world stability.

The Houston-based lawyer expressed his hope that the trade issues can be resolved in a win-win manner, adding that "when that happens, Houston, as one of the largest U.S. exporters, will be a major beneficiary."

The summit, which gathered some 200 representatives, was co-sponsored by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries and Sister Cities International, a U.S. organization dedicated to promoting friendship with foreign cities.

Themed "40 Years Ahead: Stronger Friendship, Closer Cooperation," the one-day event featured panel discussions, keynote addresses, case studies as well as a multimedia exhibit of more than 300 historic photos to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the China-U.S. diplomatic ties.