Chinese FM Calls for Joint Efforts for Political, Social StabilityChinese Foreign Minister Tang Jiaxuan Thursday urged ASEAN countries and its dialogue partners to make joint efforts for political and social stability so as to create a favorable environment for economic development.Tang told an annual meeting between ASEAN and its 10 dialogue partners(ASEAN 10+3) that political and social stability is the basic precondition for economic development. The aftermath of the 1997 Southeast Asian financial crisis, which remains in some countries to varying degrees, has led to political fluidity in some countries, he said, adding that ethnic, religious and other social conflicts have become acute. "All those issues have seriously damaged the confidence of national and foreign investors," he stressed. Tang said China hopes to see all Asian countries enjoy political and social stability so that they may focus on invigorating the economy and achieve further growth. The ASEAN 10+3 meeting was opened by Vietnamese Foreign Minister Nguyen Dy Nien here Thursday. |
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