BEIJING - China is ready to promote exchanges and cooperation with the South Asian Association Regional Cooperation (SAARC) on the principle of equality, mutual trust and reciprocal cooperation, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang on Tuesday.

He said the SAARC is an important organization which plays an important role in maintaining stability and promoting common development in south Asia.

China has always paid great attention to the SAARC development, he said, adding that China is delighted to be accepted as an observer of SAARC last year.

Qin said as neighbour of south Asia, China is ready to contribute to promoting peace, stability as well as economic and social development in south Asia.

Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing attended the opening ceremony of the 14th SAARC summit Tuesday in New Delhi. This is the first time China has been invited to attend the summit as an observer.