Korean Peninsula Tensions

The third nuclear test by North Korea and the once again heightened tensions on the peninsula are not something we want to see.

China holds that sanctions are not the end of the UN Security Council's actions, nor are they the fundamental way to solve the Korean Peninsula nuclear issue. The only correct solution to the issue is to hold negotiations and resolve all parties' concerns in a comprehensive and balanced way.

The proper handling of the nuclear issue, safeguarding peace and stability and preventing turmoil or even a conflict on the peninsula serve the common interests of all parties. They are also the shared responsibilities of all involved. We call on all parties concerned to bear in mind the larger interest, remain calm, exercise restraint, and refrain from making any moves that may further worsen the situation.

EU Partnership

The relationship between China and the EU is one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world today. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the EU. In the latter half of this year, the two sides will hold the 16th China-EU Summit and discuss an institutional framework for their medium- to long-term cooperation. We will also step up collaboration in areas such as urbanization, new energy sources, scientific and technological innovation and green development.

China is opposed to trade protectionism. It opposes the EU's anti-dumping and countervailing duty investigation against Chinese photovoltaic products. We urge the EU to properly handle related issues through dialogue and consultation.

We have full confidence in the future of Europe. China has been a firm supporter of Europe's efforts in dealing with the debt crisis. We hope and believe that Europe can turn the crisis into opportunities and make new progress in its development.

The Developing World

The strategic partnership between China and Africa has developed quickly over the years, and the two sides are now actively implementing the follow-up actions to the Fifth Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

China and Africa will particularly focus on promoting cooperation in such fields as investment, finance, assistance, African integration, cultural exchanges and peace and security in Africa.

We hope that all parties can view China-Africa cooperation in an objective manner, and respect African friends' choices in terms of their cooperative partners. Many other countries are advancing their cooperation with Africa, and China welcomes such cooperation.

China is devoted to the establishment and development of comprehensive and cooperative partnerships with Latin American and Caribbean countries. It is willing to develop cooperation of all kinds with regional blocs like the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States, and promote the establishment of a forum on China-Latin America cooperation.

Neighborly Ties

The situation in China's neighboring regions, though becoming increasingly complex, has remained generally stable, and relations between China and its neighbors are continuing to develop.

China has established strategic partnerships with most neighboring countries, making more than 100 high-level official visits last year. It would not be surprising to see 200 or even 300 such visits next year. As neighbors, our relations will become closer with greater exchanges.

China's trade with neighboring countries exceeded the total that China had with Europe and the United States to reach $1.2 trillion last year, and it could further increase in the future.

China will continue to follow the policy of building good neighborly relations and partnerships and foster amicable ties and mutual benefits with its neighbors. Many Asian countries are well aware that cooperation with China will bring mutual benefits.

It is our common wish to further cooperate and jointly work for a stable and prosperous regional environment. China and ASEAN countries have launched the largest free trade area among developing countries in the world, while the Shanghai Cooperation Organization has formed its initial strategy for medium- and long-term development. Negotiations for the free trade agreement among China, Japan and South Korea as well as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership have been officially launched.