HOUSTON in the United States aims to open more direct flights to China to attract business and investment following the launch of the maiden Houston-Beijing flight on July 12.

Andrew Icken, deputy mayor of Houston, said that they are in talks with Bank of China and energy groups such as CNOOC and Sinopec to open offices in the Texas city to tap the robust energy businesses in the US and the Americas.

"China is one of the largest trading partners of Houston," said Icken. "There is no better way to boost the city than enhancing relationship with China."

Mario C. Diaz, director of Houston Airport System, said the city will press for opening of direct flights to Shanghai and Guangzhou.