China pledges to fight against terrorism, corruption
(Xinhua)
Updated: 2004-11-19 16:37

Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing vowed Thursday in Santiago to make joint efforts with other members of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in the fight against terrorism and corruption.

Addressing the APEC Ministerial Meeting held in Santiago from Wednesday to Thursday, Li said there is no topic bigger than peace and no human right more important than security in the world.

Li said that APEC has adopted a series of joint actions in cracking down on terrorism, which has promoted the capacity building of its member economies.

As a firm supporter and participant of the anti-terrorism combat, the Chinese government will continue to support APEC's constructive role in the anti-terrorism field, the minister said.

As to the anti-corruption fight, Li said the Chinese government pays great attention to the issue, supports international cooperation in the field and commends the anti-corruption action plan adopted by APEC.

China is ready to conduct pragmatic cooperation and share information and experience with other APEC members on the issue to help create a just and transparent environment for the economic and social development in the Asian-Pacific region.

Meanwhile, Chinese Assistant Commerce Minister Yi Xiaozhun said at the meeting that APEC trade ministers reached an agreement in June in Pucon, Chile, to voice common support for the resumption of the WTO Doha Round talks.

The action greatly contributed to the signing of a WTO framework deal in the following month and China will continue supporting APEC's contribution to the WTO talks, said the official.

Yi also said China hopes the Doha Round, called as "development round," will give more attention to the demands of developing members.

He urged all parties involved to create favorable conditions for the conclusion of the talks.

The 16th APEC Ministerial Meeting, which was held prior to the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting, ended here Thursday with the signing of a joint statement, pledging more efforts in trade facilitation, human security, sustainable development and macroeconomic stability.

As a major part of APEC's decision-making mechanism, the annual ministerial meeting of foreign and economic/trade ministers takes stock of the year's activities and provide recommendations for the following leaders' meeting.