Leaders work for a stable world

Premier says shared interests between nations should override disputes

Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday said China is committed to world peace and stability, amid speculation that a stronger China might become more assertive.

In his media debut with nearly 1,000 reporters and cameramen as the premier of the world's second-largest economy, Li also pledged stronger ties with major powers, including the United States and Russia.

China is capable of achieving sustainable economic development and a stronger China will not seek hegemony, Li told a press conference following the conclusion of the annual national legislative session on Sunday.

"There are more than 1.3 billion people in China and we are still on a long journey towards modernization," he said.

"That requires an international environment of lasting peace. Even if China becomes stronger, we will not seek hegemony."

He added though that China will defend its sovereignty and territory.

Responding to questions from a US reporter on China-US ties, Li said the Chinese government is committed to maintaining strong relations between the world's largest and second-largest economies despite differences.

Trade between China and the US has risen from $1 billion 30 years ago to more than $500 billion last year, but the two countries continue to disagree over many issues.

The pivot to Asia by the US, which some regard as a strategy to contain China's growing influence in the region, has led to tension. But Li said the US and China have more shared interests in the Asia-Pacific region than differences.

"I don't believe conflicts between big powers are inevitable," he said. "Shared interests often override their disputes."

Asked about Sino-Russian relations, Li said that in addition to strong political trust, more practical cooperation is needed to boost trade, which currently stands at $80 billion a year.

Li's remarks echoed President Xi Jinping's pledge that China will adhere to a road of peaceful development, as well as a policy of mutually beneficial cooperation, at the closing ceremony of the first session of the 12th National People's Congress.

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