Brunei, China eager to raise partnership t8k8 liveo new high

China stands ready to work with Brunei to deepen and expand cooperation and raise the strategic cooperative partnership to a new high, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Tuesday.

He made the remarks when meeting with Brunei's Foreign Minister II Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof in Beijing during the minister's official visit to China from Monday to Wednesday.

Wang said China is advancing Chinese modernization, which will bring new opportunities to neighboring countries including Brunei.

China actively supports Brunei in promoting economic diversification, he said, adding China is also willing to further tap potential for cooperation in emerging areas such as the digital economy and green development to nurture more cooperation highlights.

While reiterating China's support for ASEAN centrality and its strategic autonomy, Wang said China is willing to deepen political mutual trust with ASEAN countries and keep the right direction of East Asian cooperation to jointly promote development and safeguard the stability of the region.

China is willing to continue to fully and effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea with ASEAN countries and strive to reach an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the South China Sea at an early date, he added.

Calling China a good friend of Brunei, Brunei's foreign minister said cooperation between the two countries brings new opportunities.

He expressed Brunei's confidence in the Chinese economy, saying China's growth is an unstoppable historic process that will spur the common development of countries in the region.

Noting Brunei attaches great importance to its relations with China, he reaffirmed the country's commitment to the one-China policy.

He added that the nation hopes to maintain high-level exchanges and carry out close cooperation in areas including economy, trade, and agriculture to advance bilateral ties.

While saying he greatly appreciates China for adhering to principles, promoting reconciliation and cooperation, and safeguarding fairness and justice on hotspot issues, he said he expects China to exert greater influence and leadership in international and regional affairs.

Brunei is ready to coordinate with China closely to uphold peace and stability in the region, and promote shared development and prosperity, he added.