Local leaders from Northeast Asia vow closer regional cooperation

CHANGCHUN - Local leaders from China, Russia, Japan Mongolia and the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Wednesday agreed to boost regional cooperation in Northeast Asia.

According to a joint declaration signed on Wednesday at the 21st Governors' Conference on Northeast Asia, held in Changchun, capital of northeast China's Jilin province, local governments will strengthen cooperation in infrastructure connectivity, tourism, environmental protection, construction of energy projects and raising the level of regional cooperation.

They will seek support from their central governments to boost regional infrastructure construction, cargo transport, improve transit visa systems, make customs clearance more convenient, and increase cruise tours among member countries where possible.

All the parties have agreed to support and participate in the "Belt and Road Initiative" proposed by China as well as the Greater Tumen Initiative (GTI), so as to welcome a new era in Northeast Asia.

The GTI is supported by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP).

More than 100 delegates from the five countries attended the conference of regional leaders, including Jiang Chaoliang, governor of Jilin Province, and governors and vice governors of regions from Russia, the ROK, Mongolia and Japan.

"The conference, launched in 1994, has served as an effective platform for economic, trade and cultural exchange among the member countries," said Jilin Governor Jiang Chaoliang.