In a call for unity amidst global challenges, Chinese Premier Li Qiang addressed the ASEAN-China-GCC Economic Forum in Kuala Lumpur on Tuesday. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Premier Li emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between China, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to foster shared prosperity.
The forum followed the successful ASEAN-China-GCC Summit, where leaders from the participating countries agreed to enhance their trilateral partnership. Under the theme “Synergizing Economic Opportunities Toward Shared Prosperity,” discussions focused on the necessity of collaboration in the face of increasing global complexities.
“Amid heightened geopolitical conflict and rising protectionism, we can create long-term strategic opportunities when we deepen mutual trust and strengthen solidarity,” Premier Li stated. He highlighted that cooperation among the three regions could lead to significant economic growth, citing the potential to form one of the world’s largest intra-regional markets.
Premier Li also underscored the historical ties between China, ASEAN, and GCC countries, mentioning trade and cultural exchanges that date back over 2,000 years. “These rich historical links will ensure even more successes in our future cooperation,” he said.
Focusing on China’s role, Premier Li assured that China’s high-quality development would inject new impetus into trilateral cooperation. He noted the steady growth of the Chinese economy, with a GDP increase of 5.4 percent in the first quarter of the year, and reaffirmed China’s commitment to expanding domestic demand and opening up its markets.
“We will stay committed to expanding high-standard opening up… so that companies across the world, including those from ASEAN and GCC countries, can fully share in the opportunity of China’s development,” he added.
Concluding his speech, Premier Li called for collective efforts to overcome challenges through cooperation. “China stands ready to work together with ASEAN and GCC countries to embrace greater openness and cooperation, promote steady economic growth, and join hands to synergize economic opportunities toward shared prosperity,” he said.
