Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for stronger regional cooperation during the 15th East Asia Summit (EAS) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Kuala Lumpur this week, marking the forum's 20th anniversary. His speech highlighted three key priorities for East Asia: dialogue, development, and openness—a recipe for stability in a region often caught in geopolitical crossfires. 🌍🤝
🔊 Return to Dialogue
Wang stressed the EAS's founding purpose: fostering trust through constructive talks. He criticized unnamed 'external countries' for using the platform to 'hype up differences' and interfere in domestic affairs. China supports a commemorative declaration to refocus the summit on collaboration over confrontation.
💡 Return to Development
With rising protectionism globally, Wang urged East Asian nations to 'expand the cooperation pie' through initiatives like the EAS Action Plan. 'Unilateralism is short-sighted,' he warned, advocating shared economic growth to improve lives across the region.
🚪 Return to Openness
The minister reaffirmed China's support for ASEAN-led frameworks and a 'high-level regional free trade network.' He opposed 'Cold War mentality' and exclusive alliances—a subtle nod to U.S.-led partnerships like the Quad.
⚖️ Taiwan & South China Sea Stance
Wang linked Taiwan Strait tensions to 'Taiwan independence separatist actions' and external support. He urged countries to uphold the one-China principle, calling it vital for regional peace. China also reiterated its position on the South China Sea, though details weren't disclosed.
Analysts say the speech reflects Beijing's push to shape regional norms amid U.S.-China rivalry. As one Twitter user quipped: 'East Asia's group chat just got a 🔥 new message.'
