In its relations with the United States, China has worked to stabilize and develop the relationship in accordance with the basic interests of both countries, which benefits peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Disagreements between the two countries are inevitable, but their common interests are more important. Based on the three joint communiqué, the two sides have developed their cooperation and coordination in political, economic and security aspects and international affairs, while emphasizing common ground and reserving differences. They have established many consultation mechanisms such as the China-U.S. Strategic Dialogue and the China-U.S. Strategic Economic Dialogue, which are of great strategic and practical significance in promoting stable and healthy development of bilateral ties.

The relationship between China and Europe has also developed well. They established an overall strategic partnership in 2003, and made outstanding achievements in political, economic, scientific and technological, and cultural communication and cooperation. However, differences and disputes between China and the EU become more conspicuous, especially over trade and human rights. But there are no geopolitical conflicts between them, and economic and trade relations are healthy. Therefore, the China-EU relationship basically remains strong.

Communication and coordination between China and other big developing countries have also become stronger and deeper, which is definitely of great significance.

Third, traditional friendship, unity and cooperation between China and developing countries have greatly developed. As a developing country, China considers deepening friendship and cooperation with developing countries an important strategy for realizing common development and prosperity. To promote South-South cooperation, China established the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the Forum on China-Arab Cooperation and strengthened cooperation with the countries involved. China has also deepened its cooperation with Latin America, the Caribbean and the South Pacific.

Fourth, China has been more actively deploying multilateral diplomatic activities and playing a more influential role on the world stage.

With one fifth of the world's population and a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, China has a responsibility for the fate of human beings and security in the world. China's first and foremost contribution to the progress of human society is steady and stable development at home. To promote world peace, development and cooperation, China shoulders more and more responsibility, seeking to establish an international order that is more equal and just.

The author is president of the China Institute of International Studies and former Chinese Ambassador to Britain