BEIJING, Jan. 13 (Xinhuanet) -- Officials from China and the United States gathered here Thursday morning to discuss issues concerning the protection of intellectual property rights (IPR).

Chinese Vice-Premier Wu Yi and US Secretary of Commerce Donald Evans attended the conference, held annually at proposal of US Ambassador to China Clark T. Randt.

IPR has been a key issue of concern by the United States. Chinahas intensified its crackdown on the infringement of IPR, and closed the roadside Silk Market in Beijing, known for its cheap but fake brand names.