China and the US failed to reach any agreement during the textile negotiations that ended in Beijing yesterday as "differences remained in some principle issues," according to the Ministry of Commerce.

During the fourth round of negotiations "both sides sought resolutions to textile disputes with a positive attitude and flexibility," the ministry said in a press release issued after their conclusion.

It said both sides agreed to maintain consultations and will set the date and location of the next round of negotiations through diplomatic channels as early as possible.

David Spooner, special negotiator at the US Trade Representative's office, was quoted in a statement from the US Embassy to China as saying the US remains "optimistic" that progress can be made.

The talks began on Tuesday morning with Vice Commerce Minister Gao Hucheng heading the Chinese delegation and David Spooner the US side.

(Xinhua News Agency September 2, 2005)