In a series of high-level meetings held over the weekend in Nanning, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to bolstering Belt and Road cooperation and underlined the pivotal role of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in regional affairs. Premier Li engaged in separate discussions with leaders from Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, emphasizing the significance of mutual cooperation, economic ties, and regional stability.
Premier Li Qiang Meets Southeast Asian Leaders at China-ASEAN Expo
The 20th China-ASEAN Expo and the China-ASEAN Business and Investment Summit opened on Sunday with Premier Li Qiang delivering an address at the inauguration ceremony. The event served as the backdrop for Li’s meetings with leaders from Southeast Asian nations.
During his meeting with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Premier Li expressed China’s willingness to continue the high-quality construction of the Belt and Road initiative with Laos. He highlighted the potential of the China-Laos Railway in spurring economic development for both countries and pledged support for Laos as the rotating chair of ASEAN next year. Sonexay, in turn, expressed appreciation for China’s support and reaffirmed Laos’ commitment to the one-China principle.
China’s Commitment to High-Quality Belt and Road Development
In his discussions with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Premier Li stressed China’s readiness to import more high-quality Vietnamese products and enhance trade facilitation measures. Both leaders emphasized the importance of rail connectivity, minerals cooperation, and the establishment of mutually beneficial industrial and supply chains. Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Vietnam and China, emphasizing that Vietnam’s foreign relations would not compromise the interests of third parties.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Promoting Regional Cooperation
During his meeting with Indonesian Vice-President Ma’ruf Amin, Premier Li called for closer cooperation on initiatives such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Corridor and the “Two Countries, Twin Parks.” He encouraged exchanges and collaboration in education, culture, tourism, youth, and sports. Li expressed China’s willingness to strengthen multilateral cooperation with Indonesia and support ASEAN’s unity and centrality in the region. Ma’ruf Amin expressed Indonesia’s readiness to deepen bilateral economic ties and enhance regional and multilateral coordination.
On Sunday, Premier Li met with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, where they discussed aligning development strategies and ensuring the successful implementation of Belt and Road projects. Li reiterated China’s commitment to high-quality construction and emphasized the importance of strong economic ties. Anwar Ibrahim expressed his country’s willingness to enhance cooperation in various fields and to support regional and multilateral initiatives.
In conclusion, Premier Li Qiang’s meetings with Southeast Asian leaders at the China-ASEAN Expo highlighted China’s dedication to strengthening Belt and Road cooperation and fostering strong bilateral ties. These discussions underscored the importance of regional cooperation and the pivotal role of ASEAN in maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia. China’s commitment to high-quality development and mutually beneficial partnerships was a central theme throughout these engagements, signaling a continued focus on economic growth and regional collaboration.
