Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for stronger regional integration and cooperation during the ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Thursday in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Addressing his counterparts from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Japan, and South Korea, Wang emphasized the importance of unity amid global challenges.
“The more complex the international situation is, the more necessary it is for us to eliminate interference and advance the regional integration process,” Wang stated. He highlighted the achievements since the establishment of the 10+3 cooperation mechanism, noting improved crisis response capabilities and momentum in economic growth.
Four Pillars for Future Cooperation
Wang Yi proposed four key areas to enhance collaboration among the ASEAN Plus Three countries:
Building an Integrated East Asia: Wang urged opposition to “building walls and barriers” and expressed China’s willingness to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation in production and supply chains with all parties.
Building a Strong and Resilient East Asia: Emphasizing the need for planning regional fiscal and financial cooperation, he highlighted China’s commitment to innovate mechanisms and enhance regional food security through initiatives like the 10+3 Emergency Rice Reserve Mechanism.
Building an Innovative and Dynamic East Asia: Wang encouraged seizing opportunities from technological and industrial revolutions to drive transformation and development through innovation.
Building an East Asia with Cultural Connectivity: He advocated for continued implementation of programs like “CAMPUS Asia” to promote student exchanges and talent training among the ASEAN Plus Three countries.
“No matter how the external environment changes, China is willing to use its own stable economic development to inject new impetus into the common development of the region,” Wang affirmed, expressing hope for a brighter future for East Asia.
ASEAN Ministers Echo Support
Foreign ministers of ASEAN countries praised China, Japan, and South Korea for supporting ASEAN’s central role in the regional framework. They acknowledged the significant achievements of the 10+3 mechanism since its inception in response to the Asian financial crisis.
Facing rising unilateralism, increased tariffs, trade barriers, and heightened geopolitical tensions, the ministers agreed that enhancing cooperation is more crucial than ever. They emphasized that the 10+3 cooperation should continue to play a strategic role in promoting inclusive regional development and sustainable peace.
