China's rise to economic and financial power in recent years has drawn a mix of admiration and fear from foreign trading partners. Should China put on the brakes to slow down its march?

In a forum held Thursday in Beijing, a state councilor in foreign affairs, Dai Bingguo, told 200 scholars China's development should be seen as an opportunity rather than a threat. He explained China's path of development deserves understanding and support, especially from the international community.

"Peaceful development is a strategic choice for China. It has become China's national will, and has been translated into national development plans," China Daily quoted Dai saying.

China has recently become the second-largest economy in the world, overtaking Japan. But Dai offered assurance its economic growth is nothing to fear.

"It is important that the international community respects the emphasis and value placed by the Chinese people on peaceful development. International society should welcome its development and not worry about it," he said.

Also present at the forum was Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi, who also emphasized that China seeks modernization through peaceful development, which also is the aim of its foreign relations.

"The foremost global responsibility that a country should shoulder is to manage well its own affairs, and not become a troublemaker," Yang said in the forum. "As for what responsibilities a country should shoulder, and how it can be counted as responsible, it cannot be determined by a few countries."

Another official said China's development will continue to contribute to global growth and the rapidly increasing demand of its citizens will fuel employment overseas. He predicted import valued at $8 trillion over the next five years.