Nanning, September 24, 2024 – The Europe Today: China is ready to deepen practical cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and build a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future, Chinese Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang said on Tuesday. Ding made these remarks at the opening ceremony of the 21st China-ASEAN Expo and the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.
Ding, also a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, highlighted the long-standing friendly relations between China and ASEAN, calling the partnership a “model of successful and dynamic Asia-Pacific regional cooperation” and a “vivid example of building a community with a shared future for mankind.”
China’s continued modernization efforts, through the development of a great modern socialist country and national rejuvenation, will create significant opportunities for the world, including ASEAN, Ding added. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to neighborhood diplomacy based on amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness.
Ding called for elevating strategic mutual trust between China and ASEAN countries and implementing key initiatives like the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative. He emphasized the need for deepening Belt and Road cooperation, aligning development strategies, and promoting regional and global stability and prosperity.
Further, Ding urged both sides to implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (RCEP) with high standards and conclude negotiations on the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (FTA) 3.0. This would help strengthen cross-border industrial and supply chains.
In terms of connectivity, Ding encouraged China and ASEAN to work together on major projects such as the New International Land-Sea Trade Corridor and important economic corridors. He also emphasized expanding cooperation in science, technology, and innovation through initiatives like joint laboratories and enhancing innovation platforms.
Ding concluded by emphasizing the need to deepen cultural, tourism, and youth exchanges to foster stronger mutual understanding. The China-ASEAN Year of People-to-People Exchanges will serve as a foundation for this effort.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Cambodia’s Deputy Prime Minister Vongsey Vissoth, Laos’ Deputy Prime Minister Kikeo Khaykhamphithoune, Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, and ASEAN Secretary-General Kao Kim Hourn also participated in the event, delivering speeches highlighting the importance of China-ASEAN cooperation.
Following the opening ceremony, Vice Premier Ding toured the exhibition hall and held discussions with exhibitors on future cooperation.
