BEIJING - Li Yuanchao, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), met with former US Secretary of State Henry Kissinger on Monday, according to a press release dated Tuesday.

During their talks in Beijing, Li, also a secretary of the CPC Central Committee Secretariat and head of the Organization Department of the CPC Central Committee, spoke highly of the contributions Kissinger has made since his first visit to China 40 years ago. Kissinger made a secret trip to China in July of 1971, paving the way for renewed ties between China and the United States.

"Cooperation between China and the United States is essential for the peace, stability and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region, as well as the world as a whole," Li was quoted as saying in the release.

Kissinger echoed Li's remarks, saying that US-China cooperation is a "permanent topic" for both countries. He also pledged to continue his work to advance ties between the two countries.

Kissinger was invited to Beijing by the Chinese People's Institute of Foreign Affairs to attend the Second Global Think Tank Summit, which was held in the city on Saturday and Sunday.