On August 26, 2010, Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Cui Tiankai and U.S. Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg held political consultations at the vice foreign ministerial level between the two countries in Little Washington, Virginia. Both sides reviewed recent developments of bilateral ties and agreed that a sound China-U.S. relationship was in line with both countries' fundamental interests and was conducive to peace, stability and prosperity in the Asia-Pacific region as well as the world at large. Both sides should safeguard and fulfill the important consensus reached by the heads of state of the two countries on building a positive, cooperative and comprehensive Sino-U.S. relationship for the 21st century, maintain and enhance dialogue and communication at high and other levels, build up strategic mutual trust, strive to deepen and broaden exchanges and cooperation in various fields, and properly handle disputes and sensitive issues in order to promote a consistent and steady development of bilateral ties.

Cui also exchanged views with Steinberg on major regional and global issues.

Cui also met several high-profile U.S. officials, including Deputy National Security Adviser Thomas Donilon and Under-Secretary of Defense Michele Flournoy in Washington DC. Chinese Ambassador to the United States Zhang Yesui attended the above consultations and meetings.