Premier Li Keqiang's first trip abroad as China's new head of government has drawn attention both at home and abroad. His trip, which spans two continents, embodies the new leadership's vision of China's multifaceted diplomacy, as well as its commitment to peace and development.

From May 19 to 27, Li is paying official visits to India, Pakistan, Switzerland and Germany. It will be a good chance for China to build political mutual trust, expand pragmatic economic cooperation and deepen cultural and people-to-people exchanges.

That Li starts his trip with India and Pakistan shows the importance China attaches to developing constructive ties with its neighbors. While Beijing and New Delhi are well aware of the significance of maintaining constructive engagement, their relations have proven vulnerable to a lack of trust. Face-to-face communication is always the best way to build mutual trust.