China-ASEAN relations stand above disputes, leaders agree
President Xi Jinping reiterated on Friday China's commitment to a negotiated settlement of disputes related to the South China Sea, saying the country will not allow any factors to disturb the China-ASEAN cooperation.
Xi said China always undertakes to resolve disputes through friendly consultation and negotiation.
"Prior to the resolution, China is willing to enhance the dialogues and communication with ASEAN member countries to jointly maintain the peace and stability of the South China Sea," said Xi while meeting with Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in Beijing.
Xi said China is ready to work with Brunei, which holds ASEAN's rotating presidency in 2013, to adhere to the theme of peace and cooperation to promote China-ASEAN relations.
"There should be no factor to disturb the China-ASEAN friendly cooperation process," Xi said.
He said China has always been devoted to friendship and good neighborliness. "That is our sincere wish as well as what we do," Xi said.
Hassanal is the first foreign leader Xi has received since being elected president, a fact that Xi said underscores the great importance China has attached to its relations with Brunei as well as ASEAN countries.
Hassanal said Brunei insists that all the parties should adhere to the spirit of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and seek a peaceful resolution to disputes.
The South China Sea issue should not affect ASEAN and China's friendly, cooperative ties, he said.
Premier Li Keqiang also met with the Brunei guest late on Friday.
Li recalled the achievements of China and ASEAN countries over the past 10 years, saying the future and fates of both sides have never so closely interacted.
Snails that are as fat as geese
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