China launches mission to ASEAN

JAKARTA - China inaugurated its Mission to ASEAN in Jakarta to strengthen its ties with ASEAN, a statement released by the ASEAN Secretariat said here on Monday.

"The launch of the Mission further demonstrates the commitment of China to remain good neighbors, good friends, and good partners to address common challenges in a mutually beneficial manner to further advance our Strategic Partnership," Secretary-General of ASEAN, Surin Pitsuwan, said in his statement read out by Deputy Secretary General Bagas Hapsoro, to welcome the Chinese Mission to ASEAN.

Through his remarks Surin said that the establishment of the Mission will enhance China's cooperation and coordination with ASEAN to further advance ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership.

Yang Xiuping, Ambassador of China to ASEAN and who represented ASEAN Secretary-General and Bagas Hapsoro inaugurated the Mission by unveiling the name plate of the Mission at a ceremony last week in Jakarta.

"The comprehensive cooperation between China and ASEAN will not only give a strong boost to their social and economic development, but also make significant contribution to the peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the world at large," Ambassador Yang said.

She added that the Mission would serve as bridge of communication, linkage of cooperation and messenger of friendship to promote the development of ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership.

The event was attended by high ranking officials from Indonesia, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of local and Chinese business communities in Indonesia.