Outlook for Chinese diplomacy in 2012

The year of 2012 is likely to be another messy year. Fierce protests across the world are expected to continue and the chronical debt crises are expected to weigh on the prospects of eurozone countries and the United States. And most importantly, the world's major powers such as the United States, France, and Russia will enter an election year.

In face of various risks and challenges, China will stick to the same core principle in its diplomatic efforts to serve the international peace and prosperity as well as its national interests.

The new year will be tougher as the United States has become more jittery over its relative decline, but it does not mean conflicts between the two countries will deepen, Wang Fan said, adding that China will not gloat over the crises in Europe and the United States and will follow the spirit of cooperation to provide due help.

At the international level, China will continue to be a stabilizer to world peace by assuming more obligations and responsibilities.

"As a responsible member of the international community, China abides by international law and the generally recognized principles governing international relations, and eagerly fulfills its international responsibility," says a government white paper titled "China's Peaceful Development" issued on Sept. 6.

"China has actively participated in reforming international systems, formulating international rules and addressing global issues," the document says. "It supports the development of other developing countries, and works to safeguard world peace and stability."

The white paper adds that China will assume more international responsibilities which match its national strength.

Wang noted that it is unrealistic to exaggerate and overstate China's international obligations.

Observers say that as a responsible member of the international community, China in 2012 will continue to pursue an independent foreign policy of peace, work steadfastly to help build a harmonious world, promote new thinking on security featuring mutual trust, mutual benefit, equality and coordination, as well as enhance regional cooperation and good-neighborly ties to create a favorable environment for its peaceful development.