Q: Some media and experts believe that China is expanding its influence in the South Pacific region, posing a threat and challenge to Australia's national security and strategic interests. What is your comment on that?

A: China pursues an independent foreign policy of peace and has always attached great importance to the development of friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation with all countries of the world, which transcends differences in political systems and stages of development.  As the largest developing country, China attaches particular importance to developing friendly exchanges with Pacific island countries and other developing countries in Asia, Africa and Latin America. China's cooperation with developing countries and Pacific Island Countries does not target any third party and does not seek exclusive rights. We have no intention to compete with others, and always oppose zero-sum game. China is willing to enhance communication with all countries that care about Pacific Island Countries, especially Australia and New Zealand, and give full play to respective strengths to carry out more trilateral cooperation on the basis of respecting Pacific Island Countries' wishes. China respects Australia's historical and traditional ties in the region and there is enough space in the vast Pacific Ocean for China, Australia and all island countries to share peace, development and prosperity.