In a significant move towards regional harmony, China, Japan, and South Korea have revived their trilateral summit after a four-year hiatus. The meeting, attended by Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underscored the commitment of these three economic powerhouses to coexist peacefully and foster mutual growth.
Premier Li Qiang emphasized the importance of viewing each country as a partner, urging the trio to prevent trade and economic matters from escalating into political or security issues. This cooperative stance sets the foundation for launching negotiations on a tripartite free trade agreement and enhancing people-to-people exchanges.
The leaders reaffirmed their support for an open, rules-based multilateral trading system and expressed a shared responsibility to maintain peace and prosperity in the region. This collaborative approach extends beyond economics, with a focus on addressing global challenges such as climate change through ongoing dialogue and joint initiatives.
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol stated, \"Our three countries will join forces this year to contribute to peace & prosperity,\" while Prime Minister Kishida acknowledged the collective responsibility, saying, \"We share a great responsibility for peace & prosperity in the region.\"
The resurgence of this summit is pivotal, with China, Japan, and South Korea collectively accounting for approximately 25 percent of the global GDP. China's role as the largest trading partner for both Japan and South Korea, along with a key investment ally, highlights the deep economic interconnections despite external pressures, particularly from the United States, urging a scale-back in ties with China.
The establishment of the Trilateral Cooperation Secretariat (TCS) aims to further strengthen cooperation among the three nations, promoting lasting peace, common prosperity, and shared cultural values. In 2022, the three countries contributed 23.4 percent of the world's GDP, 20 percent of its population, and 18.7 percent of global trade.
As members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership trade treaty, China, Japan, and South Korea are poised to unlock substantial trade and investment opportunities, fostering dynamic regional and global economic activities. This trilateral collaboration marks a forward leap in navigating regional tensions and achieving consensus on vital economic matters.
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China, Japan and South Korea can find ways to coexist peacefully
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