Thaindian News

Beijing, Aug 11 (IANS) Former US president George W. Bush is optimistic about the relationship between the US and China. He says he was “struck by the rich history, fascinating culture, and extraordinary potential of the country… I was captivated”.

The first Chinese edition of Bush’s book “Decision Points” has been released in China.

In the introduction, Bush writes: “When I first came to Beijing 36 years ago, it was almost impossible to imagine the vibrant Chinese society that exists today or the cooperative relationship that our nations now enjoy. My hope is that our relationship will improve even more over the next 36 years.”

The book was released by the China Citic Press, a leading Chinese publisher, in collaboration with the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, Xinhua reported.

The 446-page memoir comprises 14 chapters, covering major events throughout Bush’s eight-year presidency such as the Sep 11 attacks, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and the financial crisis of 2008.

In the introduction to the Chinese edition, Bush recalls his visits to China since 1975 when his father George Bush served as the chief of the Liaison Office in Beijing, after former president Richard Nixon’s historic trip that reopened relations in 1972.

“I was struck by the rich history, fascinating culture, and extraordinary potential of the country. I was captivated, and I knew that one day I would come back,” Bush said.

A quarter century passed before Bush made that return trip. During his presidency, he came to China four times, including during the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

Bush said some of his most consequential decisions as president focused on America’s relationship with China.

“I enjoyed the opportunity to work closely with two Chinese leaders, Jiang Zemin and Hu Jintao, to improve our diplomatic ties and promote the mutual interests of our nations,” Bush said.