China supports and welcomes the efforts of the Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to establish a Southeast Asia
Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone, says a joint statement signed on
Monday.
The joint statement is inked by China and ASEAN countries
following a China-ASEAN summit commemorating the 15th anniversary
of the establishment of China-ASEAN dialogue.
"ASEAN appreciates China's intention to accede to the Protocol
to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone and
will continue to consult China on this matter," the statement
says.
China and ASEAN are committed to maintain high-level visits,
strengthen cooperation and information sharing in non-traditional
security issues, according to the statement.
The two sides also pledge to promote cooperation on criminal
justice and law enforcement, and encourage exchange of defense and
security officials.
It says China and ASEAN will work together in ensuring maritime
security in the region, and strengthen regional cooperation on
disaster management and emergency preparedness, including
post-disaster reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, with ASEAN
taking the lead.
"We are also committed to effectively implement the Declaration
on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and work towards
the eventual adoption, on the basis of consensus, of a code of
conduct in the South China Sea, which would enhance peace and
stability in the region," the statement says.
Besides, the two sides vow to support the realization of the
ASEAN Security Community.
The summit opened Monday afternoon in Nanning, capital of South
China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Chinese Premier Wen
Jiabao and leaders of the ten ASEAN members attended the
summit.
(Xinhua News Agency October 31, 2006)