Speech at the Opening Ceremony of the Fifth Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership Meeting by Chairman Wu Bangguo of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China

Second, strengthen dialogue on the basis of equality and mutual trust. Despite their different national conditions, member states of ASEP, large or small, populous or otherwise, strong or weak, are all equal members of the international community. It is important that large countries respect smaller ones, strong countries support weaker ones and rich countries help poorer ones. The diversity of civilization, state sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as the development paths chosen by different countries according to their respective national conditions should all be respected, and no country should interfere in the internal affairs of others. It is necessary to take into account the major concerns of each member, conduct sincere dialogue and patient exchanges, properly settle differences through equal consultation in the spirit of seeking common ground while shelving differences, try to maximize consensus and constantly expand common interests.

Third, advance cooperation with the unique strengths of ASEP. The parliaments of members should fully play their functions and roles, approve relevant multilateral agreements signed by their governments in time and supervise their implementation so as to put the work of ASEM on a strong legal footing. The parliaments should also step up domestic legislation and supervision, support their governments in taking effective measures to reduce trade and investment barriers, promote open trade and increase mutual investment, so as to push for the fulfillment of the cooperation goals set by the ASEM Summit. Parliaments enjoy extensive links and a rich pool of human resources and information. Such strengths should be given full play to give useful advice on deepening practical cooperation and facilitate cooperation between enterprises and between localities. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges should be vigorously promoted with a view to deepen understanding of each other’s history and cultural traditions, enhance the friendship and mutual trust among different peoples and increase the public support for cooperation.

Dear Colleagues,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

China, as a member of ASEM, supports Asia-Europe cooperation and takes an active part in the process. China’s National People’s Congress would like to strengthen cooperation with all members of ASEP, and work together for the sound growth of ASEP. We are ready to make unremitting efforts to deepen friendship between the peoples of Asia and Europe and promote mutually beneficial cooperation for prosperity and harmony of the two continents.

In conclusion, I wish the Fifth ASEP every success!

Thank you.