Right time for region to build economic community
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and China's relationship with the 10-member bloc is the most vibrant among the bloc's relations with its regional partners, not least because they share a similar view of the importance of interconnectivity, interdependence and cooperation.
In his meeting with ASEAN leaders on Monday, Premier Li Keqiang reiterated China's commitment to being ASEAN's good friend and good neighbor while urging them to work with China to build a community of shared future in the region based on congruous ideals and responsibilities.
Relations between ASEAN and China have withstood the tests of time and the recent meetings show they will continue to do so. To promote the development of ties in the coming years, Li proposed the formulation of a vision for the strategic partnership toward the year 2030 that would build on the existing good momentum in their political-security, economic and socio-cultural cooperation.