BEIJING, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Heads-of-state diplomacy plays an irreplaceable strategic guiding role in China-U.S. relations, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said at a regular news briefing on Thursday, when responding to a question concerning high-level exchanges between the two sides.

Lin added that in a recent telephone call, U.S. President Trump once again expressed his intention to visit China in April, while Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated his invitation. The two sides maintain communication on this matter.

The essence of China-U.S. economic and trade relations lies in mutual benefit and win-win outcomes, Lin noted. "Both sides should work together to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, injecting greater certainty and stability into China-U.S. economic and trade cooperation as well as the global economy," the spokesperson said.