From the Readers

Handle relations properly

(China Daily)
Updated: 2010-05-21 07:52

Comment on "How to boost China's peaceful rise" (China Daily, May 18)

It is a good article that touches many realistic aspects. China's rise has been peaceful and does not threaten any country. But just like it has many friends that appreciate and admire its dynamic achievements, there are those who view China's rise with envy and concern. The latter are usually powerful and rich countries that see China's rise as a challenge to their dominant positions in the world.

In other words, China must know clearly which countries are its friends and which its foes. And it is important that it handles the relationship with each of them in the most appropriate way.

To have a say among the rich and powerful countries, China has to strengthen its capability and power to such a level that they start to admire and respect it.

China is the world's third largest economy and is catching up with Japan, which is the second largest. But in real terms, China is way behind Japan, not to speak of the largest economy, that is, the US. China still has a long road to travel before it can guarantee its people the standard of living prevalent in the advanced economies. But it has to cover that road to be recognized as a truly great economy.

China's military power is rising, too. Again, the reality is that the US is still way ahead of China.

But that is natural because China wants to grow peacefully. It is natural that established powers don't want to give up their dominant positions so easily. It is also natural for them to try their best to slow down China's growth and their decline.

The writer is correct in saying that China needs to walk carefully so as not to annoy others very much. He also said China should not make mindless concessions, either. It must not give in when it comes to its core interests. Compromise, if any, could only be made on its non-core interests. So, at the end of the day, China must know what are its core interests and how it should interact with the rest of the world and make it see its clear and friendly image to earn its trust and respect.

In short, China should continue its peaceful rise by strengthening its economy and improving people's standard of living, promoting cooperation and harmonious relations with all countries, and making its military strong enough to defend the country.

Hsun Tze, on China Daily website

Readers' comments are welcome. Please send your e-mail to opinion@chinadaily.com.cn or letters@chinadaily.com.cn or to the individual columnists. China Daily reserves the right to edit all letters. Thank you.

(China Daily 05/21/2010 page9)