Premier Zhu Rongji Meets Singaporean Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong

On Nov. 23, 2000, Singaporean Prime Minister Goh Chok Tong met with Premier Zhu Rongji in the Presidential Palace.

Zhu expressed gratitude to Singapore for its hospitable and considerate arrangements for the meeting of East Asian leaders as the host country and appreciation for the efficient and orderly work of the Singaporean side.

Zhu went on to say that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has played an important role in regional and international affairs and China attaches great importance to developing relations of cooperation, partnership, good neighborliness and mutual trust with ASEAN. He noted that China is willing to join efforts with ASEAN countries in promoting cooperation across East Asia. In face of the trend of globalization and the fast development of high technology, seeking development through cooperation is in conformity with the common interests of all the countries in the region. China supports ASEAN's active role in enhancing cooperation among East Asian countries and is willing to strengthen cooperation with ASEAN in the framework of East Asia. China supports Singapore's suggestion about an "Electronic ASEAN" and supports ASEAN's efforts to explore the Mekong region. Zhu agreed with Goh's suggestion and proposal that Asian countries should intensify coordination and try to attract more hi-tech talents. 

Goh said that ASEAN countries survived the Asian financial crisis and have, to various extents, seen recovery in their economies. Under the new circumstances, it is of vital importance to seek medium and long-term development and strengthen the integration of ASEAN. Meanwhile, it is necessary for ASEAN countries to help each other on a voluntary base. He also expressed the hope that China and Japan may provide more assistance to ASEAN countries in the future.

Premier Zhu noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Singapore and spoke highly of the remarkable progress achieved in the development of Sino-Singaporean relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties. At present, both countries are facing the common task of achieving a comprehensive, far-reaching and sustained development of the mutual beneficial and friendly relations and cooperation between the two countries in the new century. He went on to say that China's forthcoming entry into the World Trade Organization (WTO) offers new and greater opportunities to China's cooperation with both Singapore and ASEAN. He said China welcomes more ASEAN and Singaporean companies to seek business opportunities and expand their operations in China. 

Goh fully agreed with Premier Zhu's view and predicted that, after its entry into the WTO, China will enjoy even faster development, which will mean more opportunities for ASEAN. He added that ASEAN is willing to enhance its cooperation with China in promoting peace and development for the region. 

2000/11/24