国内英语资讯:Chinese premier urges upgrading China-ASEAN strategic partnership_时事

国内英语资讯:Chinese premier urges upgrading China-ASEAN strategic partnership

REAFFIRMING COMMITMENT ON SEALING SOUTH CHINA SEA COC

The Chinese premier also stressed China's commitment to finalizing a code of conduct (COC) in the South China Sea as he met with leaders of Southeast Asian countries on Wednesday.

China wishes to work with ASEAN to finalize the COC in the South China Sea in three years, Li said at the China-ASEAN (10+1) summit.

China and ASEAN have arrived at a single draft negotiating text of COC and agreed to complete the first reading of the pact in 2019, Li noted.

China and ASEAN already reached a Declaration on the Conduct of the Parties in the South China Sea (DOC) years ago, and have been seeking a more robust code of conduct.

Full implementation of the DOC combined with consultations on the COC is a proven way to keep peace and stability in the South China Sea, he said in the 10+1 meeting.

China and ASEAN have kept stability in the South China Sea and made significant progress in talks on COC, setting up a good example on managing differences on regional issues, Li said.

Outsiders should respect the will of regional countries and have faith in their wisdom to keep peace and stability in the South China Sea, Li added.

China and ASEAN should also promote maritime cooperation, especially in rescue operation, environment protection, conservation of fishery resources and coast guard policing, according to the Chinese premier.