CHINA president Xi Jinping wants the country to "expand its circle of friends" and build an image of "credible, loveable and respectable China".
The statement marks a possible shift in the Asian country’s diplomatic approach, which analysts say has become increasingly hostile, a BBC report said.
The comments came amid increase in criticism of China over human rights abuses against the Uyghur Muslim minority group and the crackdown on Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners, among other issues.
China has recently condemned US efforts to investigate whether Covid-19 came from a Chinese lab.
"It is necessary to make friends, unite and win over the majority, and constantly expand the circle of friends (when it comes to) international public opinion," state-run news agency Xinhua quoted Xi as saying.
He said the country should be "open and confident, but also modest and humble" in its communication with the world.
Analysts feel Xi's remarks marked a rare admission of Beijing's isolation.
He became president of China in 2012, ushering in an era of increased assertiveness and authoritarianism.
In recent years, China’s diplomats have also become increasingly vocal, using sarcasm and aggression against those who challenge its positions.
This strategy has been dubbed "Wolf Warrior" diplomacy - named after patriotic blockbuster movies in which elite Chinese special forces take on American-led mercenaries, the report said.
