ASEAN seeks deeper cooperation with GCC, China

The summit demonstrates the importance of multilateral cooperation and aims to promote strategic alignment between ASEAN and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and China on the basis of mutual respect and understanding.

With a combined GDP of US$24.87 trillion, cooperation between ASEAN and GCC and China would contribute to prosperity and development in Asia and the world.

Leaders of ASEAN, GCC and China pledged to promote trade, investment and finance cooperation, supply chain connectivity and market access as well as cooperation in new fronts such as digital technology, artificial intelligence, renewable enery; strengthen cultural exchanges, education and tourism cooperation.

Regarding regional and international issues of common concern, the leaders shared their concern over complicated developments on the Gaza Strip and voiced their support for peace process, formulation of an independent Palestine State, and the two-State solution in accordance with international law and related resolutions adopted by the United Nations Security Council.

They also affirmed the importance of peacefully resolving disputes on the basis of international law, ensuring maritime security, and upholding the values of dialogue, cooperation and confidence building.

Addressing the summit, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh welcomed ASEAN, GCC and China – the three major economic drivers of the world, to engage in discussions to enhance cooperation, opening up a historic opportunity to create new strategic cooperation space for the future of prosperity, inclusivity and sustainability for the involved parties.

Pham emphasized the need to focus cooperation on trade, investment and supply chain connectivity. From this perspective, he suggested that ASEAN and China effectively implement their free trade agreement, and that ASEAN and GCC should push for signing a free trade deal.

Pham also suggested ASEAN work with GCC and China to mull over a tripartie economic cooperation mechanism, including the possibility to formulate a free trade agreement.

Viet Nam commits to continue working with countries to contribute to peace, stability and prosperity for all people in ASEAN, GCC and China, affirmed Prime Minister Pham./.