Premier Wen Jiabao yesterday made it clear that China is opposed to building any self-enclosed or exclusive bloc in the East Asia region.

He also reassured leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) that Beijing does not seek a leadership role in regional co-operation.

The premier arrived in the Malaysian capital on Sunday to attend the ninth Summit of ASEAN Plus China, Japan and the Republic of Korea (10+3) and the ninth summit between ASEAN and China (10+1).

China supports 10+3 in enhancing communication and dialogue with the United States, the European Union and other countries or organizations outside the region to expand common interests and achieve common development, Wen said during his speech at the 10+3 summit.

He explained that the 10+3 is committed to open regionalism, saying it is not closed, exclusive, or targeted against any particular party.

"This has both promoted growth in East Asia and created ample development opportunities for other regions. This will contribute to the common prosperity and progress of East Asia and the world at large," he said.

The premier proposed an open process in building an East Asia of lasting peace and stability, common development and prosperity.

Countries and organizations outside the region should be involved in East Asia co-operation, Wen said.

He stressed that China's support to ASEAN is "sincere without any political strings attached."

"It serves the goal of mutual benefit and win-win result," Wen said.

The premier also pointed out that China's development cannot be achieved without support and assistance from other East Asian countries.

He said that China seeks no leadership role in regional co-operation.

"ASEAN is the organizer of and main driving force for 10+3 co-operation ... China will continue to support ASEAN in playing the leading role," he said.

At the 10+1 summit, Wen announced that China is ready to assist ASEAN nations affected by the highly pathogenic avian flu.

Source: China Daily