CRI听力:China to Push for East Asia Cooperation

China is expected to put forward a new series of proposals for East Asia cooperation as part of Premier Li Keqiang's trip to Myanmar next week for a meeting of East Asian leaders.

The details from CRI's Qi Zhi.

Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin is describing Premier Li's upcoming trip to Myanmar as an important move in China's neighborly diplomacy, stressing its significance for both regional cooperation, as well as peace and stability in East Asia.

Li Keqiang is due to attend an East Asia Summit, the China-ASEAN summit and the ASEAN Plus Three Summit which includes China, South Korea and Japan.

Liu Zhenmin says China's cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations is a priority in China's diplomatic agenda.

"China will propose we further deepen our political trust and work together to build the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. We also hope to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN in areas such as finance, maritime, security, culture and inter-communication."

The two sides are also expected to accelerate negotiations on upgrading the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area.

The hope is to expand trade among China and ASEAN nations to one trillion U.S. dollars by 2020.

Chinese Assistant Commerce Minister Tong Daochi.

"The two sides have jointly implemented a batch of programs on power, bridges, agriculture and manufacturing. China has also set up a China-ASEAN Investment Cooperation Fund to provide preferential financing for ASEAN countries."

On issues connected to the South China Sea, Vice Foreign Minister Liu Zhenmin says China will continue to work with ASEAN countries through the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea.

Following the meetings, Premier Li Keqiang will remain in Myanmar for an official visit to the country, his first since taking office.

For CRI, I'm Qi Zhi.