Wang Yi calls for stronger East Asia cooperation at 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Friday called for all parties to enhance understanding and trust, maintain peace and stability, and promote development and prosperity in East Asia as the East Asia Summit (EAS) marks its 20th anniversary this year.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when delivering a speech at the 15th EAS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Wang proposed three suggestions on behalf of the Chinese side for East Asian countries to strengthen cooperation.

First, return to dialogue. The original intention of the summit is to engage in constructive dialogue and enhance strategic mutual trust. However, in recent years, certain external countries have frequently used the summit to hype up differences and attack other countries, interfering in their internal affairs.

It is hoped that all parties can respect each other, communicate with goodwill, and focus on enhancing understanding and cooperation. China supports the issuance of a commemorative declaration on the 20th anniversary of the summit this year, which will provide direction for the development of the summit.

Second, return to development. Through pragmatic cooperation, we should strive to improve the lives of the people in the East Asia region. Unilateralism and protectionism are short-sighted and dangerous. The best choice for all parties is to expand the cooperation pie and share the benefits of development. China is willing to work with all parties to implement the East Asia Summit Action Plan and stimulate regional growth vitality.

Third, return to openness. We support the ASEAN-led regional cooperation framework, firmly uphold the multilateral trading system, create a high-level regional free trade network, and promote regional integration. We oppose introducing Cold War mentality and bloc confrontation into this region, as well as the establishment of closed and exclusive "small circles."

On the Taiwan question, Wang emphasized that the root cause of the tension in the Taiwan Straits is the increasingly rampant separatist actions of "Taiwan independence" and the support and encouragement from external forces. Wang said that if one truly cares about peace and stability in the Taiwan Straits, it is essential to resolutely curb the expansion of "Taiwan independence" forces.

Wang said that safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity is a sacred mission for every country, expressing the hope that all countries will continue to firmly uphold the one-China principle, oppose any form of support for "Taiwan independence," and support China's efforts to achieve complete national reunification.

Wang also clarified China's stern position on the South China Sea issue at the summit.

(With input from Xinhua)