The 17th annual China-US human rights talks were a "candid, open and constructive" dialogue that will help both sides deepen mutual understanding and reduce misconceptions, according to a statement issued by the Chinese delegation.

"Both sides have agreed to continue this dialogue in a spirit of equality and mutual respect," said the statement, which was released on Wednesday, one day after the talks concluded in Washington.

During the two-day meeting, the two parties exchanged ideas on a broad range of issues, including international human rights cooperation, the rule of law, freedom of expression, the responsibility of the media, racism and discrimination against Native Americans.