Copyright thedailycpec
Openness, cooperation, and integrated development remain central to sustaining the “Asia-Pacific miracle,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun, emphasising that regional unity is the only path for countries to collectively address global challenges and achieve shared prosperity. Guo made the remarks while commenting on the region’s economic prospects following recent progress in regional integration, including the signing of the upgraded China-ASEAN Free Trade Area (FTA) 3.0 protocol and the convening of the fifth Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Leaders’ Meeting. According to Guo, the Asia-Pacific continues to stand as the most dynamic engine of global growth and a leader in regional cooperation. More than three years after the implementation of the RCEP, trade and economic ties among member states have deepened, helping the region maintain steady growth despite external pressures. Recent data from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) projects Asia-Pacific’s economic growth at 4.5 per cent this year, outperforming other regions worldwide. However, the IMF has cautioned that rising protectionism and trade barriers could expose regional economies to greater vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for open and cooperative frameworks. China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have been each other’s largest trading partners for five consecutive years. The signing of the upgraded China-ASEAN FTA 3.0 protocol represents a major milestone in strengthening bilateral economic ties. The agreement is expected to inject new momentum into regional trade, providing a boost to confidence and sustainable growth. Guo noted that China continues to pursue high-standard international economic and trade rules while upgrading existing free trade agreements. He added that the country remains committed to advancing regional economic integration through initiatives such as the RCEP, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement (DEPA). As part of its long-term vision, China aims to build a high-standard free trade area network to further enhance regional cooperation. Guo emphasised that the country will continue expanding its high-level opening-up policy to help build an Asia-Pacific community characterised by openness, inclusiveness, innovation, connectivity, and mutually beneficial cooperation.
