Xi Jinping: China to further friendly relations with neighboring countries

Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Chinese president and chairman of Central Military Commission, speaks during a conference on the diplomatic work on neighboring countries in Beijing, Oct 25, 2013. [Photo/Xinhua]

BEIJING - President Xi Jinping has said that China would strive for a sound neighboring environment for its own development and seek common development with neighboring countries.

At a conference in the capital on diplomatic work, Xi stressed the necessity of good diplomatic work in neighboring countries to realize the "centenary goals" set by the 18th CPC National Congress in November 2012: a moderately prosperous society by 2021 and a prosperous, strong, democratic, culturally advanced, harmonious and modern socialist country by 2049.

CPC leadership in previous generations attached high importance to diplomacy with neighboring countries, raising important issues and guiding policy, opening up a generally sound environment, laying the foundation for diplomatic work, Xi said at the conference held on Oct 24 and 25.

All members of the Standing Committee of the CPC Central Committee's Political Bureau attended the conference.

On the basis of ensuring continuity and stability in China's foreign policy, the CPC Central Committee actively plans and manages China's diplomacy, and carried out a series of major diplomatic activities after the 18th CPC National Conference, with particular attention to neighboring countries.

With respect to geography, the environment and intertwined relations, Xi said the neighboring region has major strategic significance. Dealing with neighboring countries "should have a three-dimensional, multi-element perspective, beyond time and space".

In reviewing China's situation, Xi said there had been lots of changes in relations between China and its neighbors. "Our economic and trade links are closer, with unprecedented interactive exchanges," he said.

"The situation requires us to keep pace with the times and be more active in blueprinting diplomatic strategy and undertaking diplomatic work," he said.