China is committed to building a more peaceful, stable and prosperous Asia with other Asian nations including Malaysia, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Thursday.

Hong made the remarks when asked to comment on a meeting between U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates and his Malaysian counterpart, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Following a meeting with the visiting U.S.defense chief in Malaysia, Hamidi reportedly said China is Malaysia's "traditional friend".

"We do not feel we are being bullied," said Hamidi, according to the reports.

Mutual trust, harmonious existence, reciprocal cooperation and common development are the shared aspirations and interests of China and its Asian neighbors, Hong told a regular news briefing held in Beijing Thursday.

China cherishes the traditional goodwill it shares with these countries, Hong said, adding that China treats them as partners.

"We are committed to creating a peaceful, stable and equal environment with neighboring countries through mutual trust and win-win cooperation," the spokesman said.