When we look back on the twentieth century we noticethat mankind created enormous material and spiritual wealth never seen before. We alsoexperienced two world wars, hundreds of local wars and the Cold War that lasted for nearlyhalf a century, suffering tremendously from the scourge of wars or the menace of wars. TheChinese nation has gone through many hardships. The Chinese people have fought bravely fortheir national independence, liberation, democracy and freedom. They have finally broughtthe country onto the road toward modernization. The Chinese people know full well thevalue of peace.

Humanity is facing a rare chance for development aswell as tough challenges in the new century. To safeguard world peace and promote thedevelopment of all are the themes of the times and the common aspirations of people allover the world. China is engaged wholeheartedly in its modernization drive. A peacefulinternational environment and a favorable surrounding environment serve China'sfundamental interests. China steadfastly follows an independent foreign policy of peaceand is committed to a new world of peace, stability, prosperity and development. Chinafirmly pursues a defensive national defense policy and is determined to safeguard itsstate sovereignty, national unity, territorial integrity and security. The Chinese peopleare ready to work together with other peace-loving people of the world and contributetheir wisdom and strength to world peace and development, and a more beautiful future formankind.