But Boucher said no recommendations had been submitted to Bush. The administration has tried to separate consideration of a weapons package from the dispute over U.S. reconnaissance flights. But China resents the arming of Taiwan, and its sentiments are bound to have an impact on the relationship, just as U.S. criticism of China's human rights record does. Conn. Chinese officials had advised the United States to expect straightforward negotiations, an approach the State Department welcomed. But the Chinese also declined to say whether they would discuss return of the plane, which was filled with top-secret surveillance equipment.
Satellite photos indicate China has examined the aircraft's listening devices and other electronics.