China hopes to see united, stable, developing, amicable Afghanistan

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said here Saturday that China hopes to see a united, stable, developing and amicable Afghanistan, adding that this is what China's policy targets at.

Afghanistan is a major neighbor to China and a country of unique and important influence in the region, Wang said at a press conference held after his meeting with Afghan Foreign Minister Zarar Ahmad Osmani.

The peace and stability of Afghanistan has a bearing with security in western China and, more importantly, peace and development of the entire region. "The Chinese side attaches great importance to developing the good neighborly relations with Afghanistan and hopes to see a united, stable, developing and amicable Afghanistan," Wang said.

Afghanistan is a country of many ethnic groups and diverse cultural characteristics. Since the ancient time, the people of Afghanistan have worked together to not only create a splendid civilization but also maintain national unity, independence and dignity, he said.

Citing an old Chinese saying that "if the family lives in harmony, all affairs will prosper," Wang said that for the Afghan people to really get hold of their own destiny, it is imperative they unite as one. Especially for the present day Afghanistan, only unity can bring power and separation will only lead to a dead end.

The people of Afghanistan have suffered long-time wars and have longed for peace and stability. Stability produces conditions for peace. "Only when all sections are allowed access to the peace process, can prolonged political stability be realized in the country," the Chinese foreign minister said.

"A stable Afghanistan is beneficial to not only its own fundamental interest but also the common interest of countries of the region, including China," Wang said, adding, "The Chinese side expects Afghanistan could achieve broad and inclusive political reconciliation as early as possible and is willing to continue playing a constructive role in this regard."

For Afghanistan at the current stage, Wang said, development remains the absolute need and prosperity brings peace. "Only by developing the economy, can poverty be reduced and the soil for terrorism and extremism be eradicated."

The Chinese side always holds that the international community should keep the commitment of providing aid for the sustainable development of Afghanistan, he said, adding that China will continue to do what it can to help Afghanistan to enhance capabilities for independent development and capacity building in various fields.

"China's aid is limited but very sincere and will be provided without any political condition," Wang said.

The people of Afghanistan are sincere, friendly and kindhearted by tradition, Wang said. A peace-loving Afghanistan that exits with neighbors in amity is the common expectation of all countries in the region.

China supports Afghanistan to improve relations with all countries, especially neighboring countries, and supports Afghanistan to participate in regional cooperation, including that with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, he said.

Wang said China will host the fourth foreign ministers' meeting of the Istanbul Process and welcomes Afghanistan to participate in the development of the Silk Road economic belt that China has initiated.

A united, stable, developing and amicable Afghanistan is not only the good fortune of the Afghan people but also all countries in the region, Wang said. As a good neighbor, good friend and good partner of Afghanistan, China will continue to do its utmost and make consistent efforts to promote the reconciliation and rejuvenation of Afghanistan.