In a call for regional unity and collaboration, Chinese Premier Li Qiang urged Asian nations to build an Asia characterized by peace, openness, and connectivity. Speaking at the 27th ASEAN Plus Three (APT) Summit in Vientiane on Thursday, Li emphasized China's readiness to work with ASEAN, Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK), and other Asian countries to uphold Asian consciousness and Oriental wisdom.
Li highlighted the progress made in APT cooperation over the past year across various fields, noting that despite new developments, the region still faces factors of instability and uncertainty. \"Asian countries share a common home, common interests and opportunities, and above all, common values,\" he stated.
Emphasizing China's commitment to regional cooperation, Li expressed China's willingness to fully leverage the APT cooperation mechanism, support ASEAN's central role in the regional architecture, and promote long-term, stable development. \"We aim to inject more certainty and positive energy into Asia and the world,\" he added.
Premier Li called on all parties to foster a sound regional environment based on mutual respect and assistance, consolidating public support for APT cooperation. He also stressed the importance of enhancing the resilience of regional development by improving the stability and competitiveness of regional industrial systems and implementing the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement with high quality.
\"China looks forward to accelerating the restart of China-Japan-ROK Free Trade Area negotiations,\" Li said, highlighting the significance of regional economic integration.
Li also advocated for invigorating regional innovation by promoting cooperation in digital technology, artificial intelligence, green development, and supply chains. He urged for the fostering of new growth drivers to optimize the economic structure and boost sustainable development momentum.
Reference(s):
Chinese premier calls for building an Asia of peace, openness
cgtn.com
