Beijing,(People’s Daily Online)-- "China's neighbors hope to benefit from Chinese economic growth without becoming politically dependent on China" said Professor Li Xiangyang, at a forum in Beijing.

Prof. Li, Dean of the Asia-Pacific Studies Institute of CASS, pointed out that as internal and external factors evolve, "Clarifying China’s needs and interests should be the prerequisite of the country's diplomatic strategy. "

China is experiencing growing pains as its economic strength and international influence are on the rise. In the meantime, neighboring countries have new and higher expectations of China, hoping the country can shoulder a wider range of international responsibilities.

The most worrying thing is that China "wants nothing" but is assessed by foreign counties as "wanting everything".

Xi Jinping’s administration places ever more emphasis on economic diplomacy. Last year, the Chinese president launched the strategic concept of building the "Silk Road Economic Belt" and the "21st Century Maritime Silk Road", abbreviated as the "One Belt and One Road" initiatives. The proposal immediately attracted the interest of the global community.

"China's diplomatic approach of forging partners but not alliances is becoming clearer to the world," said Prof. Li Xiangyang.