US President Barack Obama has arrived in Shanghai to begin his four day visit to China. Rebuilding the world economy, tackling global warming, and combating terrorism are high on his agenda.

Obama is then scheduled to spend two days, here in the capital Beijin,g where he will meet Chinese President Hu Jintao and other senior officials.

The US President arrives with complex goals. Obama has stated clearly that "no single nation can meet the challenges of our time alone." His Asian trip aims to fulfill his commitment to work with the rest of the world. And China, as the largest developing country, and one of the only nations that has not been devastated by the global financial crisis, is more and more the one country the US looks to for cooperation.

Jon Huntsman, US Ambassador to China, said, "The US-China relationship is and will continue to shape the twenty first century. There's great strategic significance ... As we have done in some key issues."

Contacts between leaders of the two countries have far exceeded their predecessors. This trip will be the third formal meeting between Presidents Hu Jintao and Barack Obama this year. They have also spoken on the phone five times so far.

Prof. Tao Wenzhao, Senior Researcher Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said, "We have got perfect transition from Republican Bush Administration to Democratic Obama Administration ... Very good direction to work to."

But the development of bilateral ties has not been entirely smooth.

The escalating trade disputes have taken their toll on both Chinese and American companies.

Military exchanges have been on again off again as a result of US arms sales to Taiwan, which China considers one of its core interest.

Climate change is another critical issue in bilateral cooperation. With the Copenhagen meeting fast approaching, the possibility that it may not produce a binding treaty is growing.

Prof. Tao Wenzhao, Senior Researcher, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said, "Probably, participants will reach a more vague consensus, to have a kind of framework agreement ... more ..."

In Shanghai, Obama is expected to have face to face dialogue with Chinese youths. In Beijing, he will have extensive and in-depth talks with President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao. He will also tour the Great Wall and the Forbidden Palace.

Analysts say Obama's visit is a significant one that comes at a crucial time. The two countries have had much success in cooperation on various issues, but their differences are also obvious. The question is: to what extent are they willing to agree on terms that will push forward the pace of cooperation. A single trip cannot solve all problems and reach all agreements. But it's hoped his visit will help strengthen ties by clarifying strategies and common goals.

(CCTV November 16, 2009)