Phnom Penh: Leaders of ASEAN countries, including Prime Minister Hun Sen, have agreed to upgrade their partnership with China to the level of a “comprehensive strategic partnership”. This was concluded during the 24th ASEAN-China Summit held virtually on Tuesday.

Of five key agenda points, three were approved. These are the joint declaration to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the ASEAN-China dialogue partnership, the joint declaration on ASEAN-China comprehensive cooperation under the ASEAN framework and the strengthening on green and sustainable practices.

Progress on the implementation of the action plan to implement the “ASEAN-China strategic partnership for peace and prosperity 2021-2025” and the concept paper on strengthening China's technical cooperation with ASEAN were both noted. The ASEAN-China heads of government have agreed to hold a meeting next month to mark the 30th anniversary of their dialogue partnership.

China has been acknowledged as ASEAN’s largest trading partner and investor. Leaders have also expressed their gratitude to China for its continued support of ASEAN countries, especially through the provision of vaccines. China’s contribution was also praised in helping building alliances and cooperation in the field of health and other sectors. The Chinese government has pledged another $10 million to the ASEAN-China Cooperation Fund which aims to support ASEAN students studying in China.