Chinese FM Meets ASEAN Secretary-General
China and ASEAN Forge Closer Ties, Emphasizing Trade, Peace, and Regional Stability
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BEIJING, July 25 (Xinhua) — Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Kao Kim Hourn, secretary-general of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), in Beijing on Friday, underscoring China’s commitment to deepening its partnership with the bloc and fostering a shared future.
China Prioritizes ASEAN in Neighborhood Diplomacy
Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, reiterated China’s consistent prioritization of ASEAN in its neighborhood diplomacy. He expressed strong support for ASEAN’s increasing role in international and regional affairs, aligning with the directives from the central conference on work related to neighboring countries held in April.
“Guided by the central conference on work related to neighboring countries held in April this year, China will work with ASEAN member states to build a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future,” Wang stated, highlighting a strategic vision for enhanced cooperation.
Three Key pillars for China-ASEAN Cooperation
In the current global landscape, Wang Yi outlined three critical areas for focused cooperation between China and ASEAN:
upholding Free Trade and Multilateralism
China and ASEAN, as significant forces within the Global South, are urged to strengthen their solidarity and cooperation to counter unilateralism and safeguard the multilateral trading system. Wang emphasized the importance of upholding World Trade Association (WTO) rules and ensuring the integrity and authority of both the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP).This commitment aims to promote economic resilience and shared prosperity across the region.
Fostering Peace and Cooperation in the South China Sea
The two sides are committed to the full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China sea (DOC). The objective is to cultivate a new narrative of peace, friendship, and cooperation within the South China Sea, promoting stability and mutual trust.
Maintaining Regional Peace and Stability
Wang Yi addressed the recent border clashes between Cambodia and Thailand, expressing deep distress over the casualties. As a common friend and neighbor to both nations,China stands ready to maintain an impartial position and continue its constructive role in de-escalating tensions. This commitment underscores China’s dedication to regional peace and its willingness to facilitate dialogue and resolution.
ASEAN’s Recognition and Future Aspirations
Kao Kim Hourn, in his remarks, expressed profound appreciation for China’s unwavering support of ASEAN’s centrality in regional cooperation and its efforts in community building.
“ASEAN looks forward to leveraging the fifth anniversary of the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership in 2026 to enhance its strategic alignment with China and deepen practical cooperation across all fields,” Kao Kim Hourn stated, signaling a forward-looking approach to strengthening bilateral relations.
He also conveyed ASEAN’s gratitude for China’s active engagement in promoting peace talks concerning the recent border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing the China-ASEAN comprehensive strategic partnership, reinforcing regional stability, and promoting shared prosperity through enhanced cooperation.