East Asia Cooperation Prioritizes Regional Integration

ASEAN Plus Three countries aim to bolster economic ties amid global challenges.

As global tensions rise, **Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi** stressed the importance of regional unity among ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea, calling for continued progress in economic integration and dismissing external interference.

Strengthening Regional Bonds

**Wang**, a member of China’s Political Bureau, addressed the ASEAN Plus Three Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, emphasizing the necessity of deepening cooperation to overcome challenges such as unilateralism and trade protectionism.

He noted that since the 10+3 cooperation mechanism was established, member countries have improved their crisis response capabilities and worked together to create new economic growth drivers.

China’s Proposals for East Asia

To further enhance cooperation and resilience, **Wang** proposed four key initiatives:

• Build an integrated East Asia by opposing barriers and strengthening supply chains.
• Create a strong and resilient East Asia by planning regional financial cooperation and enhancing food security through the 10+3 Emergency Rice Reserve Mechanism.
• Foster an innovative and dynamic East Asia by seizing technological opportunities.
• Promote cultural connectivity through student exchanges and talent development programs like “CAMPUS Asia.”

Commitment to Regional Development

**Wang** affirmed China’s dedication to supporting regional growth by contributing to economic stability and providing new opportunities for shared advancement.

ASEAN Support

ASEAN foreign ministers commended China, Japan, and South Korea for their support of ASEAN’s central role in the regional framework. They emphasized that the 10+3 mechanism, created in response to the Asian financial crisis, has yielded significant achievements.

The ministers also acknowledged that the 10+3 cooperation is crucial for promoting inclusive regional development and lasting peace amid rising unilateralism, increased tariffs, trade barriers, and heightened geopolitical tensions.
According to a recent report by the World Bank, East Asia and the Pacific region is expected to see economic growth of 4.5% in 2024, highlighting the importance of continued regional cooperation World Bank, 2024.