In a significant move to enhance regional stability and prosperity, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized the need for China, Japan, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) to renew and accelerate their cooperative efforts. Speaking at the ninth Trilateral Summit Meeting in Seoul, Premier Li highlighted the importance of the 25th anniversary of the China-Japan-ROK trilateral cooperation mechanism.
Premier Li outlined a comprehensive five-point proposal aimed at deepening cooperation among the three nations. The first point calls for the comprehensive restart of cooperation, urging respect for each other's core interests and fostering positive interplay between bilateral and trilateral relations.
Economic and trade connectivity is the second focus, with Premier Li advocating for the stability of industrial and supply chains. He stressed the importance of resuming negotiations for the China-Japan-ROK free trade agreement to bolster economic growth.
Leading scientific and technological innovation ranks third on the proposal. Establishing a China-Japan-ROK Innovation Cooperation Center in China was highlighted as a key initiative to drive new growth drivers through collaborative innovation.
The fourth point emphasizes boosting cultural and people-to-people exchanges. Premier Li encouraged leveraging the China-Japan-ROK 2025-2026 Year of Cultural Exchange to strengthen the bonds between the three neighboring nations.
Lastly, promoting sustainable development was highlighted as essential. Premier Li outlined the need for cooperation in low-carbon transformation, climate change, and epidemic response, proposing the exploration of more "China-Japan-ROK + X" cooperation projects.
Addressing regional tensions, particularly on the Korean Peninsula, Premier Li called for constructive roles from all parties to ease tensions and restart dialogue. He emphasized the creation of a new engine for regional cooperation that addresses the needs of ASEAN and neighboring countries, aiming to boost ASEAN Plus Three cooperation.
Supporting Premier Li's vision, ROK President Yoon and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida underscored the importance of maintaining stability and continuity in cooperation. They advocated for deepening collaboration in sustainable development, economy and trade, public health, science and technology, and disaster relief, while also pushing for the resumption of free trade agreement negotiations.
As the three nations navigate complex regional dynamics, the renewed commitment to trilateral cooperation signals a promising pathway towards long-term stability and shared prosperity in East Asia.
Reference(s):
Premier Li calls for resuming, speeding up China-Japan-ROK cooperation
cgtn.com
