Manila: China reiterated that ASEAN adheres to the principle of 'mutual benefit' as the foundation of cooperation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Manila, Philippines today, emphasized that the principle of mutual benefit is a crucial foundation for successful cooperation.
According to Thai News Agency, China's Foreign Minister affirmed that China will continue to cooperate with Southeast Asian countries under the principles of peace, development, cooperation, and reciprocity. He also called on all parties to strengthen unity in addressing new challenges and uncertainties while promoting peace and growth at both regional and global levels.
In addition, Mr. Wang is scheduled to meet with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on the sidelines of this conference. Senior officials at the U.S. State Department have confirmed the meeting, which is expected to discuss the possibility of a summit between the two leaders in September.
The meeting between high-ranking diplomats from the two superpowers took place amid a fragile temporary truce, which could face further complications after President Donald Trump accused China last week of interfering in the US election, an accusation the Chinese government has vehemently denied.