Time East Asia learnt from unity proverb

There are differences, most often than not minor, among member states of all regional, continental and inter-continental groups. But such groups still bring benefits to all its members and act as a forum to resolve their differences and disputes. The European Union (EU) is perhaps the best example of such a group.

The efforts of China, Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK) to build an "East Asian Community" (EAC) should be seen in this light, and it is for the critics now to see the obvious advantages it would bring to the three countries.

State leaders met at the Second China-Japan-ROK Summit in Beijing on Oct 10 and exchanged views on a wide array of subjects. Their discussions ranged from issues of common concern, including denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and resumption of the Six-Party Talks, to trade and commerce.