Oliver Br?uner, researcher from Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, an independent international institute, explained, "Chinese interests are expanding and this has led to debates on the future role of China in international affairs, both within China and abroad."

For example, China's energy and business interests have an increasingly global reach, Br?uner said, adding that this also means that Chinese companies and citizens are active around the world, also in politically unstable regions.

Br?uner also mentioned China's tense relationships with its maritime neighbors, especially with Japan, Vietnam and the Philippines.

These countries are trying to balance China's rising political, economic and military power by strengthening their ties with the US, whose "pivot to Asia" strategy has unsettled many in Beijing, Br?uner said.

"The result is a continued lack of trust between China and many of its neighbors, as well as the US."

Br?uner said that to effectively pursue its expanding interests while maintaining friendly relations with its international partners, China will need a smart and considered approach.

He said rebuilding trust in the region and returning to the successful "good neighbor policy" of the late 1990s and early 2000s should be a main priority for China's new leadership.

Contact the writer at zhangchunyan@chinadaily.com.cn