The United States says it stands ready to welcome the China-initiated Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew made the statement after a two-day visit to Beijing.

He says Chinese leaders have made clear they aspire to meet high standards and welcome partnership regarding the new institution.

Lew also says having the AIIB co- finance projects with existing institutions will help demonstrate a commitment to the highest standards of governance, environmental and social safeguards, and debt-sustainability.

He further notes that the US welcomes China's growing involvement in the global economic architecture.