China supports and welcomes the efforts of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to establish a Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone, says a joint statement signed on Monday.

 

The joint statement is inked by China and ASEAN countries following a China-ASEAN summit commemorating the 15th anniversary of the establishment of China-ASEAN dialogue.

 

"ASEAN appreciates China's intention to accede to the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear-Weapon Free Zone and will continue to consult China on this matter," the statement says.

 

China and ASEAN are committed to maintain high-level visits, strengthen cooperation and information sharing in non-traditional security issues, according to the statement.

 

The two sides also pledge to promote cooperation on criminal justice and law enforcement, and encourage exchange of defense and security officials.

 

It says China and ASEAN will work together in ensuring maritime security in the region, and strengthen regional cooperation on disaster management and emergency preparedness, including post-disaster reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts, with ASEAN taking the lead.

 

"We are also committed to effectively implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea and work towards the eventual adoption, on the basis of consensus, of a code of conduct in the South China Sea, which would enhance peace and stability in the region," the statement says.

 

Besides, the two sides vow to support the realization of the ASEAN Security Community.

 

The summit opened Monday afternoon in Nanning, capital of South China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao and leaders of the ten ASEAN members attended the summit.

 

(Xinhua News Agency October 31, 2006)