Putting people first, opening up, speaking out for fairness and justice and honoring its commitments – these are the values that represent modern China, according to the country's ambassador to the UK.

In a speech to mark the 72nd anniversary of the creation of the People's Republic of China, which falls on Oct 1, Zheng Zeguang set out five policy points that he said defined his country.

"At present, the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century. Uncertainties, risks and challenges are increasing," Zheng told an online audience.

"Amid these unprecedented changes, China is striving forward, with confidence and in firm steps, towards building a strong and modern socialist country in a comprehensive way."

Zheng said a lack of "mutual understanding" was to blame for a deterioration in relations between London and Beijing and called for "candid dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual respect," to ease tensions.

China's National Day is celebrated with a week-long holiday in honor of the founding of the People's Republic in 1949, following a bitter and protracted civil war.

READ MORE

Hungary signs gas deal with Russia

What are Germany's coalition options?

Rome's Tiber river 'at risk'
 

Zheng said the Communist Party had put the country and its people on a path that has led to stability and prosperity. He summarized the focus of the modern Party:

Putting the people front and center

Zheng cited the health measures implemented to stamp out COVID-19 and the economic development that had benefited those living in China and across the world.

Opening up and sharing

China has fully opened its manufacturing sector and is progressing on services, Zheng said. He also highlighted the introduction of the Foreign Investment Law.

Promoting fairness, a better life and common prosperity 

In eliminating extreme poverty, China has demonstrated its commitment to improving the lives of all its citizens, Zheng said. He added that the government was working to reduce inequalities between regions and sections of the population.

Promoting world peace and justice

Multilateralism and the United Nations are at the heart of China's approach to foreign affairs, Zheng said. China will never bully others and will oppose bullying by others, he told his audience.

Honoring commitments

Zheng set out measures China has taken to support developing countries – through aid, healthcare support and debt relief. He also listed some of the actions Beijing was taking to cut its emissions and how it is helping others to do the same.

"China's development poses no threat to any country," Zheng said. "On the contrary, it creates opportunities for common development."