President Hu Jintao
said that China supports the international community's fight
against terrorism, and backs expanded cooperation in the
Asia-Pacific region for control of infectious diseases.
He made the remarks at the 12th Economic Leaders'
Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum,
which opened at Espacio Riesco Convention Centre on Saturday in
Santiago, the Chilean capital.
Hu said that, as the Asia-Pacific region has been
haunted by terrorist attacks, it is timely and imperative for APEC
to address issues of security.
International cooperation has proven the most
effective means in this regard since the attacks of September 11,
as actions by a single country usually pale in the face of
transnational terrorist organizations and their activities,
according to Hu.
Hu said China supports the international community
making collective moves against all kinds of terrorism, guided by
the UN Charter and complying with international law.
He hailed APEC's efforts in recent years to
reinforce its members' anti-terrorism capabilities and safeguard
security.
In particular, the regional body's advocacy for
trade safety suits the needs of the businesses in trade and
investment, and falls into the category of international
anti-terrorism cooperation, he said.
Talking about medical progress, particularly with
respect to infectious diseases, Hu said problems can hinder
economic and social development if not properly resolved.
He cited the deplorable losses brought about by the
outbreak of SARS
(severe acute respiratory syndrome) and bird flu in over the past
two and half years. AIDS, which is prevalent in the Asian-Pacific
region, is also having a tremendous impact on the social and
economic development of APEC members.
At the organization’s CEO summit the day before, Hu
called on visionary political leaders and responsible business
people to work together to achieve sustainable growth through
collaboration. He said that a more prosperous China is destined to
offer additional business opportunities to the rest of the
world.
China now represents an export market of more than
US$500 billion a year, and is committed to continued opening up and
increased participation in economic globalization.
Founded in 1989, APEC is the premier forum for
facilitating economic growth, cooperation, and trade and investment
in the region. The two-day Economic Leaders' Meeting is the top
annual gathering of the organization.
Under the theme of "One Community, Our Future,"
leaders from 21 member economies discussed APEC's role in promoting
trade and free-trade agreements during the Economic Leaders'
Meeting.
It was followed by the APEC Business Advisory
Council on Saturday afternoon, when senior business executives told
leaders that they believe a rapid and successful conclusion to the
Doha Development Agenda negotiations is the top priority for the
region’s economy.
(China Daily November 22, 2004)