(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-12-27 16:40

On the Iran nuclear issue, China stuck to a political solution and actively conducted diplomatic mediation.

On Darfur, China named a special representative for the issue and provided humanitarian aid and peacekeepers that won acclaim from the international community.

On the Middle East, China attended the US-led Middle East peace conference and played a positive part in advancing the peace process of the region.

We have properly handled the issue of product quality and food safety," Foreign Minister Yang said.

"China uttered its own voice in disputed international issues and put forth constructive and detailed suggestions. The independence is a shining point in China's diplomacy in 2007," said Yan Xuetong, a Tsinghua University professor on world issues.

To safeguard national sovereignty, security and interests in development was a solemn duty of China's diplomatic work, Yang said.

"We have gained international support in opposing Taiwan's referendum on UN membership, and defeated Taiwan's attempt to join the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations (UN) for the eleventh and fifteenth times respectively.

China made effective measures to safeguard the legitimate rights of overseas Chinese citizens and companies. The Chinese Foreign Ministry established a consular protection center to better protect the interests of its people living and traveling abroad.

"China is showing a more pragmatic and active stance on the world stage, and expanded its influence on the settlement of major international issues," said Shi Yinhong, a professor at Beijing's Remin University.

Looking ahead to 2008, Yang said, with the deepening of relationship between China and outside world, the country's development would be closely bound with world development.

He said 2008 was an important year for China diplomacy as the country would host the Olympics, as well as a series of international conferences, such as the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM).

"In the face of unprecedented opportunities and challenges, we will do well in various work so as to make a new contribution to world peace and development."

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