Q: Please comment on the belief by some Americans that the rise of China threatens and challenges the US and thus should be contained and checked.
A: Strategic mutual trust is the foundation for cooperation. Moving beyond the Cold War mind-set and pursuing mutual benefit are prerequisites to the building of strategic mutual trust.
China has a clear intention to pursue peaceful development, which is a strategic option based on China's own interests and will never be swayed. We expect the US to honor its words welcoming China to play a bigger role in international affairs with actions in order to win the trust of the Chinese people.
Topic: US sanctions on Iran
Q: The US imposed sanctions on Iran. How can the US impose sanctions at will?
A: China supports all efforts to maintain the international mechanism of nuclear non-proliferation. We don't think imposing sanctions on Iran can solve the problem completely, but it makes things more complicated.
The only right way to deal with it is through talks and dialogue. We firmly oppose the act of unilateral sanctions.
Topic: Sino-Australia ties
Q: Please comment on the development of the Sino-Australia relationship considering that Australia gives consent to the deployment of US troops.
A: Australia is an important partner for China in the Asia-Pacific region. Our bilateral cooperation has experienced proactive development in recent years, particularly in trade and economic areas.
China and Australia share important common interests in promoting peace, stability, cooperation and growth in the region and the world at large despite differences in social system, value, history and cultural background.
We would like to take this opportunity of the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties to further develop our relationship.
