China to upgrade ASEAN partnership, committed to South China Sea peace: Foreign Minister

BEIJING - China looks to upgrade the strategic partnership and build a closer community of shared future with ASEAN, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said today.. China would continue to put co-operation with ASEAN high on its agenda of international co-operation this year, Wang told a press conference on the sidelines of the annual session of the National People's Congress.

China’s State newsagency, Xinhua, quoted Wang as saying China has strong resolve and deep commitment to maintain peace and stability in the South China Sea, "China's position is firm and consistent," he said.

China followed a responsible approach to the South China Sea issue, taking into account interests of the Chinese people, historical facts, regional peace and the international rule of law, he said, adding that China takes a peaceful, justifiable and constructive approach to help settle regional flashpoints.  www.webershandwick.cn (ATI).