In a significant move to strengthen regional ties, the foreign ministers of China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) convened in Busan on November 26 for their 10th trilateral meeting. This face-to-face exchange marked the first since 2019 and underscored a collective commitment to deepen neighborhood diplomacy and prepare for a forthcoming leaders’ summit.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the importance of cooperation among the three nations. “China will continue to adhere to the basic policy of its neighborhood diplomacy, which is to pursue friendship and partnership with its neighbors and work with the ROK and Japan to push the cooperation among the three countries back on the right track,” he stated.
The meeting in Busan reflects a shared optimism for the future of trilateral relations. The last such gathering, held in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, laid out a strategic vision to address global shifts and foster economic stability. Building on that foundation, the ministers discussed ways to accelerate trade negotiations and enhance mutual trust.
One of the key outcomes was the proposal to resume negotiations for the China-Japan-ROK free trade agreement (FTA). This initiative offers a promising avenue to boost trade diplomacy and contribute positively to regional and global economic recovery. Collectively, China, Japan, and the ROK represent approximately 25 percent of the world’s gross domestic product, highlighting the significant impact of their cooperation.
As preparations for a potential leaders’ summit progress, the three nations acknowledge the importance of ruling out external interference and focusing on mutual development and security interests. Strengthening strategic partnerships and dialogues is seen as essential to deepening common ground and fostering stability in the region.
The Busan meeting serves as a hopeful indicator of renewed commitment among China, Japan, and the ROK to collaborate on economic, diplomatic, and security fronts. By working together, the three neighbors aim to navigate global challenges and contribute to a more prosperous and stable Asia.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
