by Xinhua writers Yu Jiaxin, Gu Zhenqiu
LONDON, May 26 (Xinhua) -- China has remained consistent in building a community with a shared future for mankind, which is fully reflected in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, Stephen Perry, chairman of Britain's 48 Group Club, said recently.
"Despite the pressure internationally, China's diplomatic policies remain consistent, which impress me most," Perry, a recipient of the China Reform Friendship Medal in 2018 for his outstanding contributions to improving China-Britain ties, told Xinhua.
He made the remarks after Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a news conference on China's foreign policy and foreign relations on May 24 on the sidelines of the third session of the 13th National People's Congress, China's top legislature.
"China's interest lies in the alignment of its interest with its global philosophy, which is about nations working together," Perry said.
China supports the understanding of the virus and has managed it in a very practical way, he said, adding that China has shared information with relevant countries and regions and helped other countries to fight COVID-19.
By attaching great importance to openness, transparency and responsibility, China has acted as a responsible country and its actions are completely aligned with the concept of a community with a shared destiny, he said.
"Coronavirus is a global crisis that no country is immune from. It has proved that building a community with a shared future for mankind is the only right choice to win the battle," he noted.
In Perry's eyes, the concept of a community with a shared future has also been reflected in China's support implementing the Belt and Road Initiative. "China has helped Asia to become a continent that can link to Europe, Africa and the Middle East by land," he noted.
"At the same time, it is promoting economic development with good infrastructure through these new opening areas of the world," he said.
In addition, Perry said, if the global economy moves away from the trend towards globalization and multilateralism, it may fall into a prolonged recession.
The year 2020 marks the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and the European Union (EU). Regarding the China-EU cooperation, Perry said the two sides have broad consensus in terms of international trade order, responding to climate change, and maintaining multilateralism.
They have also demonstrated healthy cooperation in the fight against COVID-19, he added.
"In the post-epidemic era, a stronger cooperation between the two sides is required to facilitate a quick economic recovery," Perry said. Enditem
