At the 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi delivered a dynamic speech calling for a fresh push toward regional unity. Speaking just as the summit marks its 20th anniversary, Wang laid out three key priorities for East Asia: a return to dialogue, development, and openness. 🤝
Wang stressed that the summit was meant to foster constructive dialogue and build strategic trust, rather than being used as a platform to spotlight differences. He warned against external interference that inflames disputes and disrupts internal affairs, urging all parties to communicate with goodwill and focus on mutual growth.
The minister argued that pragmatic cooperation can improve the lives of residents across the region by expanding opportunities and sharing in the benefits of progress. He endorsed an ASEAN-led framework to build a high-level regional free trade network, emphasizing that unilateralism and protectionism are both short-sighted and harmful.
Addressing the Taiwan question, Wang highlighted that the tension in the Taiwan Strait stems from rampant separatist actions and external support for "Taiwan independence." He reminded all parties that protecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity remains a sacred mission, and urged them to adhere firmly to the one-China principle.
Wang also reaffirmed China's stern stance on the South China Sea issue, sending a clear message on the need for stability and solidarity. His comprehensive vision calls for East Asia to embrace dialogue, drive development, and maintain openness in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi calls for stronger East Asia cooperation at EAS meeting
cgtn.com
