China Supports Malaysia’s ASEAN Leadership, Enhances Cooperation
China’s Support for ASEAN Leadership
China has expressed its support for Malaysia’s work as the rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with a willingness to work with Malaysia to enhance regional cooperation and achieve fruitful outcomes. This was announced by a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson on Wednesday.
Malaysia’s Priorities
According to media reports, Malaysia’s Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has emphasized the significant economic partnership between China and ASEAN, stating that China has been ASEAN’s most significant economic partner for years. He also pledged to enhance cooperation with China to "develop robust economic frameworks and secure a more equitable and sustainable future for all."
South China Sea Disputes
Anwar also highlighted the need for greater multilateral diplomatic progress in the South China Sea, with the aspiration that consultations on the Code of Conduct in the South China Sea should be concluded sooner rather than later.
China’s Response
In response to Anwar’s remarks, spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that under the strategic guidance of leaders from China and ASEAN countries, the concept of a China-ASEAN community of shared future had taken root, with significant progress made in building a peaceful, safe and secure, prosperous, beautiful, and amicable home.
China-ASEAN Relations
Guo noted that China and ASEAN have been each other’s largest trading partners for consecutive years, with the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 Upgrade Negotiations substantially concluded. The visa-free arrangement between China and countries like Malaysia has produced remarkable results, and the "Lancang-Mekong visa" policy was officially implemented.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Guo emphasized that China is willing to work with Malaysia to enhance cooperation in areas such as:
- Trade and economic cooperation
- Digital transformation
- Industrial and supply chains
- Green development
- People-to-people exchanges
Belt and Road Initiative
Efforts will be made to promote the mutual advancement and synergy of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, the three global initiatives, and the construction of the ASEAN Community, contributing to more fruitful outcomes in regional cooperation.
South China Sea Disputes
Guo noted that China and ASEAN countries have gained valuable experience in developing bilateral relations by adhering to the Asian approach of amicable consultation to properly handle and resolve differences. China remains committed to resolving relevant disputes in the South China Sea through negotiations and consultations with the directly involved countries.
Conclusion
In conclusion, China’s support for Malaysia’s ASEAN leadership is a significant development in regional cooperation, with opportunities for enhanced trade and economic cooperation, digital transformation, and people-to-people exchanges. The resolution of South China Sea disputes through negotiations and consultations is also crucial for maintaining peace and stability in the region.
FAQs
Q: What is China’s stance on Malaysia’s ASEAN leadership?
A: China supports Malaysia’s work as the rotating chair of ASEAN and is willing to work with Malaysia to enhance regional cooperation and achieve fruitful outcomes.
Q: What are the key areas of cooperation between China and ASEAN?
A: Trade and economic cooperation, digital transformation, industrial and supply chains, green development, and people-to-people exchanges.
Q: How does China approach resolving South China Sea disputes?
A: China adheres to the Asian approach of amicable consultation to properly handle and resolve differences, through negotiations and consultations with the directly involved countries.