During the 27th China-ASEAN Summit held in Vientiane on October 10, Chinese Premier Li Qiang expressed China’s steadfast support for ASEAN integration and its strategic independence. He emphasized the importance of elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and ASEAN to new heights.
Li highlighted recent advancements in building a China-ASEAN community with a shared future, which have resulted in tangible benefits for both sides. He acknowledged the sluggish global economic recovery and the growing challenges of insufficient global aggregate demand, noting that market resources are crucial in current economic development.
With both China and ASEAN boasting substantial markets—over 1.4 billion and 600 million people respectively—Li stated that enhancing market connectivity is a vital direction for further cooperation. He announced that negotiations for the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (FTA) have reached a significant conclusion, establishing an institutional framework for a hyper-scale market and promoting economic integration in East Asia.
Li emphasized the need for collaboration to create a common market, aiming to generate stronger, sustainable growth for both regions while supporting broader regional prosperity. He reiterated that China-ASEAN relations extend beyond bilateral ties, holding substantial significance for both Asia and the global stage.
The Premier called for the establishment of a multidimensional connectivity network, urging cooperation in infrastructure projects and the expedited implementation of the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN FTA. He also highlighted opportunities for collaboration in emerging industries, including the digital economy and green development, while promoting deeper cultural and people-to-people exchanges.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, current chair of ASEAN, along with other ASEAN leaders, commended the robust growth of the ASEAN-China comprehensive strategic partnership. They noted the fruitful cooperation across various fields and acknowledged that both regions have become each other’s largest trading partners.
ASEAN leaders welcomed the conclusion of the Version 3.0 FTA negotiations and expressed their readiness to align with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, advancing regional economic integration and enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, connectivity, and climate change mitigation. They also expressed interest in expanding collaboration in emerging areas such as artificial intelligence and the digital economy.
The summit concluded with the adoption of several important documents, including a joint statement on the substantial conclusion of the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN FTA negotiations and agreements on combating telecommunications fraud and enhancing cooperation in smart agriculture and cultural exchanges. These outcomes aim to strengthen the ASEAN-China community and contribute to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.