Viewers who tuned in to hear George W. Bush's speech at Tsinghua University also had a chance to get a good look at his host, Vice-President Hu Jintao, heir apparent to Jiang Zemin.
It was the first meeting between Mr Hu and Mr Bush - and the most public performance for China's leader-in-waiting, who was shown live to a global and domestic television audience.
In contrast to the warmth shown by Mr Bush, Mr Hu appeared more serious. He stuck to his script, but spoke without looking at his notes, relying on his renowned photographic memory.
Mr Bush spoke on the value of leaders establishing a rapport and for individuals of different nations to find common ground.
'It's so important for people to realise in both our countries that we're dealing with human beings who have desires and loves and frustrations - even old citizens like me and the Vice-President,' he said. Mr Bush is 55 while Mr Hu is four years older.
Mr Hu said China and the US shared common interests and responsibilities. 'As long as the two sides respect each other, treat each other equally and seek common ground, while our differences exist, Sino-US relations are sure to embark on a healthy and smooth development,' he said.
