China said on Monday its development is an opportunity for the world, not a threat, in response to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's condemnation on the 'China phobia' among some Western countries. 

"Anwar's remarks reflect the aspiration of developing countries to uphold independence and seek development," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning at a regular press briefing.

China is committed to pursuing the independent foreign policy of peace,  and opposes bloc confrontation and taking sides, Mao added.

The Malaysian prime minister decried a rising tide of "China phobia" among the U.S. and some of its Western allies in an interview with London-based Financial Times (FT).

In response to U.S. criticism of his country's ties with China, Anwar was puzzled about why Malaysia would "pick a quarrel" with China, its largest trading partner, according to the report published Sunday on the FT website.

"Why must I be tied to one interest? I don't buy into this strong prejudice against China, this China phobia," he said in an interview with the FT in Penang, his birthplace in northern Malaysia.

Anwar said he told U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris, "We are a small country struggling to survive in a complex world... I want to focus on what is best for us," according to the report.

Anwar took office as Malaysia's prime minister in November 2022. Calling China an important neighbor, Anwar has said his government will prioritize enhancing relations with China in trade, investment, and culture.

He said for the benefit of the Malaysian people's economic interests, China's role is pivotal.

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim speaks at an event during the APEC CEO Summit in San Francisco, November 15, 2023. /CFP)