Harmonious co-existence and favorable interactions between China and the United States are in both countries' fundamental interests, said a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson on Thursday.

Jiang Yu made the remarks at a regular press briefing in response to a question about China's attitude toward the relationship of the two countries within the Asia-Pacific region and how China will handle it.

"The Asia-Pacific region is one region where the two countries' interests are most interlaced. As countries with major influence on the area, their harmonious co-existence and favorable interactions will be conducive to regional peace, development and prosperity," Jiang said.

She added that the mutually beneficial co-existence of China and the United States depends on confidence and trust.

During the first China-U.S. Strategic Security Dialogue, held under the framework of the China-U.S. Strategic and Economic Dialogue (S&ED), the two countries agreed to establish consultations on Asia-Pacific affairs.

"The establishment of this mechanism is believed to be able to facilitate favorable bilateral interactions between China and the United States within the region, and to make positive efforts toward regional peace and stability," the spokesperson said.

She said the two countries share more common interests and responsibilities than disputes and conflicts within the Asia-Pacific region.

"As long as the countries strengthen communication, enhance mutual understanding and properly handle disputes, they will earnestly cooperate and promote their own interests and development in the process of promoting peace and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region," Jiang said.