The more turbulent global dynamics become, the more crucial it is for ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea (collectively known as ASEAN Plus Three or 10+3) to remain focused, resist external interference, and press forward with regional integration, emphasized Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday.
Wang, who also serves as a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, delivered these remarks during the ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.
He highlighted that since the inception of the 10+3 framework, participating nations have continually enhanced their crisis response capabilities, pushed for deeper economic integration, and jointly cultivated momentum for emerging growth engines.
Wang noted that development-focused cooperation remains the dominant trend in East Asia. However, the region is still grappling with challenges such as unilateralism, protectionism, and excessive tariff use by certain major powers.
To maintain progress, Wang proposed four key directions for future cooperation.
First, he called for building a more integrated East Asia, urging opposition to divisions and isolationism. China, he said, is ready to collaborate on implementing leadership commitments and strengthening cooperative ties in production and supply chains.
Second, he advocated for a resilient East Asia, suggesting strategic planning in regional fiscal and financial collaboration. He added that China supports innovation in mechanisms and aims to enhance food security by advancing the 10+3 Emergency Rice Reserve Mechanism.
Third, he stressed the importance of fostering an innovative and dynamic East Asia, harnessing opportunities from emerging technological and industrial revolutions to drive transformative growth.
Fourth, he proposed deepening cultural connectivity in East Asia by continuing initiatives like the “CAMPUS Asia” program to boost student exchanges and talent development among 10+3 countries.
Wang reaffirmed that regardless of global uncertainties, China will contribute to regional development through its stable economy, opening new avenues for collaboration and shared prosperity across East Asia.
In response, ASEAN foreign ministers commended China, Japan, and South Korea for their consistent support of ASEAN’s central role in regional affairs.
They also acknowledged that the 10+3 framework was originally formed to address the Asian financial crisis and has since delivered significant progress.
With global pressures such as unilateralism, tariff hikes, and geopolitical strains increasing, ASEAN ministers emphasized that the 10+3 mechanism remains vital for fostering inclusive regional growth and long-term peace.
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