The strong and mutually beneficial cooperation between ASEAN and China since the Dialogue Partnership was established in 1996 has emphasised socio-cultural relations, which have served as the foundation for building mutual trust and confidence.
In a titah delivered at the 26th ASEAN-China Summit yesterday, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam said the frequent occurrence of natural disasters has significantly impacted agricultural and food production, as well as trade of key agricultural products. In this regard, the monarch welcomed further practical cooperation focused on developing resilient and sustainable agriculture practices and strengthening food supply chains, to enhance food security in the region and ensure better preparedness for future crises.
Thus, His Majesty stressed the importance of addressing the adverse impacts of rising temperatures and extreme weather events and welcomed strengthening cooperation by sharing innovative technology and expertise through the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change.
In addition, a holistic approach would help address the disruptive effects of climate change while further strengthening ASEAN-China cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
His Majesty also welcomed Premier of the State Council of China Li Qiang to his first ASEAN China Summit.
In a statement, the Premier of the State Council of China highlighted ASEAN and China’s efforts towards shared progress and prosperity through cooperation in areas such as trade, regional connectivity and climate action.
President of Indonesia and ASEAN Chair Joko Widodo then delivered the ASEAN Common Statement on ASEAN-China Dialogue Relations which, among other things, underlined that ASEAN and China have shared responsibilities to achieve regional peace and stability, as well as to ensure that the ASEAN-China partnership is people-centred and future oriented.
At the summit, the leaders discussed the promotion of economic and trade relations between ASEAN and China, as well as enhancing cooperation in digital transformation, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges.
At the end of the summit, the ASEAN-China Joint Statement on Cooperation on the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and the ASEAN-China Joint Statement on Deepening Agricultural Cooperation were adopted.
Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen. The 26th ASEAN-China Summit was held at the Jakarta Convention Centre, Indonesia.
