I read with interest Mr Zheng Xiwen's article in the Global Times entitled "China is offering, not taking a 'free ride'" and dated October 8.

Yes, there is a tendency among many countries to look at China's position in a skewed and bias manner. Every action is seen with suspicious and more often than not, the negative comments are loudly broadcast, while the positive aspects are quietly discussed during meetings.

Zheng's article therefore has highlighted, in a quantitative manner, the reality on the ground of how far China has extended its assistance in terms of dollars and cents and in kind.

It has indeed been very helpful.

John Samuel, Deputy Chief of Mission, Embassy of Malaysia, Beijing