ASEAN, China to Work on Deepening Strategic Cooperation

China’s second Ambassador to ASEAN, H.E. Mme Tong Xiaoling on March 2 presented her Letter of Credentials to the Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr Surin Pitsuwan. During the presentation, both sides reiterated their readiness to bring ASEAN-China relations to a higher level after a 20-year dialogue partnership. As stipulated in the ASEAN Charter, non-ASEAN Member States and relevant intergovernmental organisations may appoint and accredit Ambassadors to ASEAN.

“This year marks the 20th anniversary of China-ASEAN dialogue relations. Twenty years of cooperation has demonstrated that China and ASEAN, as good neighbours, good partners and good friends, enjoy not only common interests and ambitions, but also a solid foundation and great potential for furthering our cooperation,” said Ambassador Tong.

In 2009, China became ASEAN’s largest trading partner, accounting for 11.6 per cent of ASEAN’s total trade of US$1.7 trillion. For the first 8 months of last year, bilateral trade between ASEAN and China reached US$185.4 billion, 47 per cent higher than the volume for the same period the previous year.

Ambassador Tong added, “As China's second Ambassador to ASEAN, I am ready to maintain close communication and cooperation with ASEAN colleagues to push forward China-ASEAN strategic cooperation to a higher level, to contribute to the harmony and prosperity of the region.” Dr Surin encouraged Ambassador Tong to work closely with her counterparts from ASEAN Member States, the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN and the ASEAN Secretariat.