31st ASEAN Summit: Premier Li calls for free trade, integration amid protectionism

2017-11-15
cgtn.com

In the Philippine capital Manila, the ASEAN Summit is ongoing. And Premier Li Keqiang has attended the “10 Plus Three” Summit and the East Asia Summit. He has weighed in on the current regional economic and political situations.

10 plus 3 that involves the leaders of all 10 ASEAN countries, plus those from China, Japan and South Korea. Premier Li Keqiang is calling for quicker negotiations in a China-Japan-South Korea free trade agreement to advance the East Asia Economic Community, and to integrate East and Southeast Asia’s diverse economies into a single market.

Premier Li: “We are still seeing a mixed picture of world economic recovery. De-globalization and protectionism are on the rise. Cross-border regional issues are emerging and these have presented challenges to us. I hope that through this summit, we can build a consensus and send a positive signal that we firmly support regional integration and advance the East Asia Economic Community.”

As the world’s most dynamic and promising regions in terms of development, East Asia accounted for 44 percent of global economic growth last year. Premier Li said establishing an East Asia Economic Community is a strategic goal of the 10+3 cooperation, and accords with the long-term and fundamental interests of the people in the region. Other leaders at the meeting have supported Premier Li’s proposal.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in: “In 1999, we utilized the power of solidarity and overcame the financial crisis. Let us create a vision for the East Asian community: of peace, prosperity, and progress. Let us overcome the complex challenges, including protectionist and self-centered approaches, aging, and climate change.”

Premier Li also touched on the progress made on the South China Sea territorial issue, saying negotiations over the Code of Conduct can now move forward after an agreement between China and ASEAN. He reiterated China’s commitment to resolve disputes peacefully, and with parties directly involved. Premier Li’s activities in Manila will continue beyond the conclusion of the Manila meetings. On Nov 15, he will hold a bilateral meeting with Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte.