Terry E Branstad said China can play a critical role in convincing North Korea to dismantle its nuclear and missile programs.
"Our relationship with China is multi-faceted and not solely focused on trade," said Branstad in his confirmation hearing before the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.
Branstad, who is a personal friend of Chinese President Xi Jinping, said he was well aware of the critical national security issues the two countries must work together on as well.
"As (US) President (Donald) Trump made clear when he met with President Xi at Mar-a-Lago a few weeks ago, China could play a critical role in convincing North Korea to dismantle its nuclear and missile programs, a strategic policy that boosts the security of America, China, and the entire world," Branstad said.
"I saw first-hand many of the cybersecurity concerns the United States has in regards to China during my time as Governor, when I received my monthly security briefings. The protection of intellectual property and technology security is of the utmost importance to our country, and I will continue to make that clear in frank conversations with the Chinese government," he said.
On the South China Sea, Branstad said China cannot be allowed to use its artificial islands to coerce its neighbors or limit freedom of navigation or overflight.