The setting up of the Free Trade Area (FTA) between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will surely bring great opportunities to China and ASEAN nations, said Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan here Thursday at the third forum of the Chinese people around the world.

The forum, hosted by the Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of theState Council and the China Overseas Exchanges Association, is focused on China-ASEAN FTA as well as challenges and opportunitiesfaced by Chinese business people.

The establishment of the China-ASAEN FTA will contribute to thestability and development of both the Asian and world economies, said Tang at the opening ceremony.

The Chinese government will continue to devote itself to the strategic partnership with ASEAN countries, he said.

More than 20 million overseas Chinese people, who live in ASEANcountries, will play an irreplaceable role in the establishment ofChina-ASEAN FTA, he said.

Source: Xinhua