A New Chapter at 20 Years
The 15th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting kicked off in Kuala Lumpur, marking two decades since the region launched a dedicated forum for dialogue and collaboration. China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, called for a stronger, more united future for East Asia.
1. Return to Dialogue
Wang urged all parties to revisit the summit’s original purpose—fostering constructive conversation and building strategic trust. He noted some external actors have recently used the forum to highlight differences and interfere in internal affairs. Respect and goodwill must guide our talks, he emphasized, supporting a commemorative declaration for the 20th anniversary to chart a clear path forward.
2. Return to Development
Practical cooperation matters most, Wang said. He warned that unilateralism and protectionism only narrow opportunities. Instead, he proposed expanding the cooperation pie so every country can share growth benefits. The Chinese mainland is ready to work together on the EAS Action Plan, he added, to spark new regional vitality.
3. Return to Openness
Underlining support for the ASEAN-led framework, Wang called for upholding the multilateral trading system and crafting a high-level regional free trade network. He opposed any Cold War mentality, bloc confrontations or exclusive small circles, stressing open markets drive sustainable progress.
Addressing Regional Flashpoints
On the Taiwan question, Wang pointed to separatist moves by Taiwan independence forces and external encouragement as the root of tensions in the Taiwan Strait. He urged countries to uphold the one-China principle and help curb these movements, supporting efforts toward complete national reunification as a sacred mission.
Wang also reiterated the Chinese mainland’s firm stance on the South China Sea, underlining sovereignty and territorial integrity as non-negotiable.
Why It Matters
For young entrepreneurs, robust dialogue and open markets mean new startup hubs and cross-border tech partnerships. For travelers and digital nomads, streamlined cooperation could translate into smoother visas and richer cultural exchanges. And for changemakers, the push for multilateralism sets a tone for tackling global challenges together.
As the EAS celebrates two decades, Wang Yi’s threefold call invites East Asia to rethink collaboration, share prosperity and stay open to the world.
Reference(s):
Wang Yi calls for stronger East Asia cooperation at EAS meeting
cgtn.com
