COMMUNITY OF SHARED FUTURE OPENS A NEW CHAPTER

China and ASEAN are closely connected by not just mountains and rivers but also cultural and ethnic heritage. While celebrating the 26th anniversary of their dialogue relations this year, the two sides have found themselves entering a new stage of development, with stronger bilateral ties than ever. As good neighbors, good friends and good partners that share a common vision for brighter prospects, China and ASEAN countries are determined to overcome various challenges and hardships to enhance their collaboration in building a community of shared future that will bring more benefits to people across the region.

As ancient Chinese philosopher Lao-tzu said, “A huge tree grows from a tiny seedling; a nine-story tower rises from a heap of earth.”Throughout history, Chinese people and the people of Southeast Asian countries have not only fought shoulder-to-shoulder in struggles for national independence, but have also created beautifully colorful civilizations through their joint efforts. These diverse cultures have merged and influenced one another and have also evolved, providing a vital foundation for people of different nations in the region to learn from one another and advance together.

Today, as China and ASEAN share the responsibility of maintaining regional peace and stability, seeking closer bilateral ties is in line with the trends of times and is conducive to the common interests of people in Asia and around the world. There is tremendous potential to be tapped into. Enhanced relations will eventually lead to closer people-topeople bonds between China and ASEAN countries.

Thai artists dance at the Thai Pavilion as the 14th China-ASEAN Expo kicks off in Nanning, capital of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region on Sept. 12, 2017.