China seeks a path of modernization with Chinese characteristics, a path of peaceful development, said Premier Wen Jiabao at the Fourth Foreign Ministers' Meeting of Asia Cooperation Dialogue in Islamabad Wednesday.  

"No matter how international climate might change, the Chinese people will always be a trustworthy and reliable partner for the Asian peoples," he said.

He said China will continue to concentrate on addressing domestic concerns, and broaden and deepen economic cooperation with other Asian countries. China supports the role of Asia-based regional and sub-regional cooperation mechanisms and works hard to enhance political trust, and deepen trade and economic cooperation, cultural exchanges and security dialogue with other Asian countries.

He pledged China will continue to appropriately handle the issues left over by history. China adheres to the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence and steps up dialogue and consultation.

Wen also said China will continue to play a constructive role in regional affairs and to support Asia in keeping its door open to the outside world. China will continue to uphold justice, champion fairness and protect the rights and interests of developing countries, he said.

He added China wishes to join the rest of Asia in welcoming the participation of all countries and organizations in the world in Asia's development and their positive roles in this process.

Wen is paying an official visit to South Asia covering Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and India. Pakistan is the first leg of his tour.

(Xinhua News Agency April 6, 2005)