China's ambassador to Japan said Monday that China aimed to create a "harmonious neighborhood" with its neighbors.

Cui Tiankai told Xinhua that China would promote strategic mutual trust, and mutually beneficial cooperation to achieve common prosperity.

It would also adhere to multilateralism to achieve common security and to the inclusive spirit of cultural harmony.

He said China's principle of "friendship and partnership with neighboring countries" had benefited both itself and its neighbors.

Cui said China and its neighbors shared common interests in development and security.

Cui said China's put a priority on diplomacy with neighboring countries and regional cooperation had been promoted.

He cited Japan as one of the most important neighbors, which was of great importance to stabilizing and improving the surrounding environment.

Chinese President Hu Jintao paid a state visit to Japan in May 2008 and in their joint declaration, the leaders of the two countries said

China and Japan were cooperative partners and supported each other's peaceful development.

Enhancing regional cooperation in Asia was also one important aspect in China's diplomacy, and China had participated in and enhanced regional cooperation.

China and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) would set up a free trade zone in 2010, while China, Japan and South Korea had launched a summit for better cooperation. China would also provide 10 billion U.S. dollars of loan to member countries of Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Cui said unstable factors remained in areas neighboring China and its practical impact and potential hazards deserved attention.

Source: Xinhua