The main task of China's diplomacy this year is to promote economic cooperation and trade between China and other countries, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said on Saturday.

"Economic development is the central task of China right now. The focus of our diplomatic work should be more than creating a favorable international environment for the country's economic growth, but also to directly serve the economy," Yang said at a press conference on the sidelines of the annual session of China's parliament.

"Diplomacy should not be a zero-sum game, but one that strives to create win-win situations," he added.

He also pledged to provide guidance for Chinese enterprises to explore the international market, and to protect the legitimate rights of Chinese citizens and corporations overseas.

(Xinhua News Agency March 7, 2009)