China always places neighboring countries as a priority in its diplomatic agenda, and is always an anchor for regional peace, an engine for regional development and prosperity, and a champion of the shared values of Asian countries, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

Neighbors helping neighbors and building an amicable neighborhood are part of Chinese tradition and culture, Wang said at a news conference on the sidelines of the fourth session of the National People's Congress in Beijing.

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He said the fundamental character of China's good-neighborliness and friendship remains unchanged, and the prevailing trend of win-win cooperation remains unchanged.

Wang attributed the key factor in maintaining peace and stability in the surrounding region to China's consistent adherence to its policy of fostering amicable, secure and prosperous neighborhood.

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"Imagine if China were to behave like some traditional major powers, eager to carve out spheres of influence, incite bloc confrontation, or even exploit its neighbors, would Asia still be as stable as it is today? Would the international community still be able to share in Asia's development opportunities?" he said.