Chinese Premier Li Qiang addressed the 28th ASEAN Plus Three Summit in Malaysia, where he stressed that openness, cooperation and shared prosperity are key drivers for the success and future development of East Asia. He praised ASEAN's achievements, welcomed the accession of Timor-Leste and recalled that despite global challenges such as high tariffs and economic instability, the region remains resilient and dynamic.
In his speech he recalled economic wonders of the region - from Japan's rapid growth to China's reformist rise - and stressed that it is openness and cooperation that have made it possible to overcome differences, strengthen connectivity and maintain stability. These principles must continue to guide regional development, he said.
Looking ahead, Li Qiang called for aligning development strategies to revive the economic vitality of East Asia. He proposed three main priorities:
- Promoting a peaceful and open regional environment through the preservation of free trade, multilateralism and opposition to protectionism.
- Deepening cooperation in industrial and supply chains to increase efficiency and mutual benefits.
- Supporting new sources of growth through innovation in the digital economy, artificial intelligence, clean energy and electric cars.
Li Qiang affirmed that China is ready to work with ASEAN, Japan and the Republic of Korea to promote inclusiveness, sustainability and innovationto build together a prosperous and stable East Asia that will contribute to peace and global development.