By Li Xing (China Daily)
Updated: 2007-12-11 07:21

Michael Leavitt, US Secretary of Health and Human Services, had his first try at chatting with Chinese netizens Monday in Beijing, when he walked into the studio of www.chinadaily.com.cn.

"This is the first time I've done this kind of forum in China or anywhere else," he said.

Awaiting him were dozens of questions from netizens, ranging from China-US rows, enhanced collaboration over safety of product and food imports, and cooperation in healthcare, especially in the prevention of pandemics, to the possibility of introducing traditional Chinese medicine in the US healthcare system.

During the interview, Leavitt also talked about his extensive travel in China and meetings with rural doctors and patients, which he said helped him understand the complexities of Chinese society and the differences between urban and rural areas.

Recalling his 11 years as governor of Utah, he said: "We hosted the 2002 Winter Olympic Games So I have great admiration for what the Chinese people are doing to prepare to host the world. It's a very big job.

"But I will tell you that it's worth it. And when you're finished, it will have created a great legacy for China. And the world will come here and see the progress that China is making and the world will come and see the challenges that China has," he said.