Foreign and Military Affairs

China vows to further practical co-op with ASEAN

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-03-19 21:03
Large Medium Small

BEIJING - China is ready to enhance practical cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said Friday.

Related readings:
China vows to further practical co-op with ASEAN Minister: China-ASEAN FTA win-win opportunity
China vows to further practical co-op with ASEAN ASEAN official's visit expected to boost trade relations
China vows to further practical co-op with ASEAN China trade deal offers much to ASEAN countries: ASEAN Chief
China vows to further practical co-op with ASEAN ASEAN members will benefit from lowering barriers to goods and services

In a meeting with visiting ASEAN Secretary General Surin Pitsuwan, Yang said China would act on principles set forth in the framework of the free trade zone between the two sides.

China unswervingly followed a policy of advancing cooperation of mutual benefit with ASEAN, he said.

"China will maintain its support for the building of the ASEAN community," Yang said. China would back ASEAN playing a dominant role in regional cooperation in East Asia.

China was ready to carry out cultural exchanges with ASEAN, and intensify regional and sub-regional cooperation, Yang said.

He said China was willing to work with ASEAN to promote infrastructure interconnection.

"The ASEAN-China strategic partnership is of great significance to the ASEAN countries," Surin said.

Surin, on his first visit to China since taking office, said the two sides should advance bilateral contacts and communication, enhance cooperation in fields such as investment, small and medium-sized enterprises, tourism and culture.

They also exchanged views on global and regional issues of common concern.