China isn't second strongest country: Le Yucheng

China is not the second strongest country but the second largest economy, said Assistant Foreign Minister Le Yucheng while speaking it in a form in Beijing.

"China is still a growing country with imbalanced development," he said it at China Institute of International Studies, Beijing. Le Yucheng said that despite many achievements, China has a long way to go, as there are many sectors which is not fully developed and thus imbalance still occurred there.

"It is not unwilling - but unable - to take on more international responsibilities and fully play the role of a major country."

"Just like in sports: Though China has a comfortable lead in table tennis, it is almost impossible for China to win a gold medal in football," he said.

Le, however, claimed when it comes to safeguarding world peace, stability and development, China has always done its best and its track record is as good as any other country.

--With IANS Input--