China reiterates support for Sino-ASEAN free trade zone

China reiterates support for Sino-ASEAN free trade zone

Agence France-Presse Beijing

Chinese Premier Zhu Rongji told his Thai counterpart that Beijing was eager to push forward the establishment of a regional Southeast Asian free trade zone, state press said on Wednesday.

Zhu made the comments in talks with Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing Tuesday evening, the leading People's Daily said.

"China will abide by its commitments and take measures to foster a Sino-ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) free trade zone to promote the economic development of ASEAN countries and prosperity of the region," Zhu was quoted as saying.

"Efforts to establish a Sino-ASEAN free trade zone is of important and far-sighted significance."

ASEAN comprises the Philippines, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Brunei, Singapore and Indonesia.

Thaksin is heading a 33-member delegation that includes his deputy Somkid Jatusripitak, Foreign Minister Surakiart Sathirathai and Commerce and Trade Minister Adisai Bhotharamik.

"The goal of my visit is to express my thanks and the thanks of the Thai government to you, your excellency the premier of the PRC (People's republic of China), for you assistance and help to Thailand," Thaksin said.

Zhu is set to step down at the session of China's parliament next month.

On Wednesday, Thaksin is scheduled to meet outgoing President Jiang Zemin and new Communist Party chief Hu Jintao, who is expected to take over for Jiang when his term expires in March.

Thaksin will also meet vice premier Wen Jiabao, the likely next premier, and was expecting to hold a session with Li Peng, the outgoing number two and head of the state parliament who visited Thailand in September.