In the first half of this year, many voices were raised in disapproval against China: From Philippines' groundless criticism of China's construction activities on the Nansha Islands through its president – who even likened China to Nazi Germany - to the United States frequent accusations that China is responsible for web attacks, according to an People's Daily Overseas Edition commentary on June 13.

In the commentary, Hua Yisheng, an expert on international issues, suggests these voices reflect a failure on the part of some countries to treat China's rise rationally.

China's rapid development has far surpassed the expectations of some countries, making them feel uncomfortable and concerned. Since China took over from Japan to become the world's second largest economy, Japan has been increasingly vigilant towards China; in recent years, the United States has promoted its Asia-Pacific "rebalancing" to maintain its dominance in the region, says Hua.

Erroneous perceptions of China have affected cooperation with China. This year, the Mexican government decided to indefinitely shelve a high-speed rail project from Mexico City to Queretaro and the Sri Lankan government suspended the Colombo Port City project. A number of China's other overseas projects have also been affected.

However, it is not so difficult to take a rational view of China, says Hua.

First, China's current situation and development. China will continue to be a developing country for a long time. It will adhere to peaceful development and is committed to maintaining a stable international and neighboring environment.

Second, to take a rational look at China's role in international affairs. China wants to promote the construction of new international relations, as opposed to a zero-sum game. As one of the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China has played an active role in regional and global issues such as the DPRK nuclear issue, the Iranian nuclear issue, the fight against terrorism, and climate change.

Third, to take a rational look at the innovative public goods provided by China. The "One Belt, One Road" initiative aims to integrate China with the countries along the route, while the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank focuses on much-needed investment in infrastructure construction and prods global economic governance in a more comprehensive and effective direction.

This article was edited and translated from 《望海楼：理性看中国，其实并不难 》, source: People's Daily Overseas Edition