A reporter with National Broadcasting Company asks a question at Premier Li's news conference. [Photo/Xinhua]

The common interests between China and the United States are bigger than their differences, Premier Li said.

China became the biggest trading partner of the United States last year, with the trading volume reaching nearly 560 billion US dollars, Li said.

For the healthy development of the China-US relations, the two countries shall adhere to the principle of equality and mutual benefit, he said.

He said that the two countries are negotiating a bilateral investment treaty (BIT), adding that China will give American investors wider access to the Chinese market and it is hoped that United States will do the same.

The premier said that the two countries have always seen win-win economic and trade relations and the China-US relations will move forward no matter who wins the US presidential election in November.

Pension

The Chinese government is capable of guaranteeing payment of benefits for pensioners, the Premier said.

Li said provincial governments, under the current scheme, have both liability and ability to ensure the pensions payment after raising funds through multiple channels.

If provincial governments have done their best but do face difficulties, the central government is prepared to extend help, Li said.