Civil organizations of China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries have reached an initiative on jointly promoting the economic and industrial recovery, and safeguarding regional solidarity and prosperity in the post-pandemic era.

The initiative was published on Monday, after a virtual meeting held by the leaders of the civil organizations. Gu Xiulian, president of China-ASEAN Association, delivered a keynote speech during the meeting.

The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has caused a strong impact and deep influences upon the global economy, international order and world pattern, said Gu. She spoke highly of the mutual support offered by China and the ASEAN countries, saying it is a manifesto of the friendship enjoyed by China and the ASEAN countries.

However, Gu added, trade and investment cooperation between the two sides have bucked up, breaking historical records to become each other’s biggest trade partner. It no doubt injected new vitality to the regional economy, and brought back faith to Asia and the world.

China has been promoting its new “dual-circulation” development pattern while deepening reform and opening up wider to the world, which will bring more opportunities for the ASEAN countries, said Gu.

She hoped that the civil organizations of the countries promote people-to-people exchange, and win-win cooperation to secure regional development and prosperity.

Leaders of the civil organizations of the ASEAN countries spoke highly of  China's role in the pandemic containment, especially China's vow in making COVID-19 vaccine affordable and available for all countries and people.

They reiterated that it is only by global cooperation that human beings can beat the pandemic.

The leaders also complimented China's post-pandemic recovery, saying that it is setting up a great example for all ASEAN countries.

Lin Songtian, president of Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC), made a conclusion during the meeting, saying that the 21st century is a century of Asia, adding that China and ASEAN countries should cherish the historical opportunity and safeguard the stability and prosperity of the region, as well as the world.

Lin said the CPAFFC will continue to offer help to ASEAN countries' efforts in containing the pandemic, while at the same time boost cooperation and exchanges in all sectors.