Rise of Asia:
“We in Asia must remain open to one another, respecting the diversity of our paths forward, and cooperating with one another as we build our common future.”

“Different parts of Asia may be rising. But the rise of Asia or any sub-regions of this continent cannot yield the benefits to the people of Asia as a whole if Asia lacks a continent-wide cooperation. Asia needs an Asia-wide cooperation that can pool resources, turn diversity into strength, render Asian potentials into tangible outcome for all sectors of the Asian population.”

“I do not only believe in Asia, its potential and its people but I am also a strong believer in open regionalism. I believe in promoting Asian cooperation as a vehicle for global prosperity. I believe in regional building-blocks as an important component of effective multilateralism. That is why Asia is strengthening linkages with Europe and the Pacific. That is why South-South cooperation is also important. Asian links with Africa and Latin America must be further strengthened.”

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