Wang Yi: China, ASEAN should further strengthen strategic mutual trust

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi addresses the opening ceremony of a symposium to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN via video link, July 28, 2021. /Chinese Foreign Ministry

A symposium to commemorate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN is held in Beijing, July 28, 2021. /Chinanews.com

In the next 30 years, China and ASEAN should enhance strategic mutual trust, deepen cooperation in fighting COVID-19, foster new growth drivers and safeguard peace and stability in the region, he stressed.

Wang reaffirmed that China will support the building of the ASEAN Community and support the bloc's central role in regional cooperation.

The diplomat called for joint efforts to promote high-quality cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative and cooperation in various fields such as the digital economy, scientific and technological innovation, the blue economy, sustainable development and green transformation.

He said China stands ready to enhance dialogue and consultation with parties concerned to the South China Sea issue and properly handle their differences. He called on relevant parties to reject interference by outside forces and maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea.

The symposium was hosted by the China Institute of International Studies in Beijing.

(Cover: File photo of the Nansha Islands in the South China Sea. /CFP)