China is welcoming the confirmation of U.S. Ambassador Gary Locke in a commentary in the ruling party's flagship newspaper.

In the article Thursday, People's Daily said the selection of former commerce secretary Locke shows the United States attaches great importance to economic and trade ties between the countries.

Locke, the first Chinese-American to serve as America's chief diplomat in Beijing, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate last week and sworn in by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Monday.

People's Daily said the United States must restructure its economy and increase exports in order to revitalize its sluggish economy. It said that will require Washington to rely more on Asia, and especially its emerging economies like China.

The commentary also notes that 181 members of the U.S. Congress have urged President Barack Obama in a letter to approve a sale of advanced F-16 aircraft to Taiwan, a sale China staunchly opposes.

It says Washington should understand that China has never deviated from its principles on major issues concerning national sovereignty and territorial integrity. It says a “great price” would be paid if the United States did anything to hurt the national sentiments of the Chinese people.

China considers Taiwan a part of its territory which must eventually be reunited, by force if necessary.