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According to a China Daily report, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has agreed on a six-point statement on the South China Sea issue that goes in line with China's ever-lasting will of turning the disputed waters into a sea of peace, friendship and cooperation. In response to the six-point principles, Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said China values its relationship with the ASEAN and is willing to work together with the group's members to implement the DOC and "open to consultations with the ASEAN on the conclusion of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea.". 1 China has also announced that it would work in association with ASEAN to safeguard the regional peace and security. 2
On the domestic front the State Council of China has issued a five year plan which highlights the social and economic development of the ethnic minority areas. 3
On the regional front Beijing has voiced its discontent over Russian attack on Chinese fishing vessel, which has resulted in one fishermen going missing. 4
President Hu Jintao has announced a list of five priority areas where Beijing will provide aid to African countries, this includes African Union’s peacekeeping missions, in order to strengthen China-Africa relations. 5 Hu Jintao also held talks with Niger President Mahamadou Issoufou. 6
In other development, according to reports, China has expressed its discontent over official contacts between Taiwan and the United States. 7
- 1. “ASEAN principles in accord with China's policy on S. China Sea settlement” China Daily, July 22, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/22/content_15606251.htm
- 2. “China pledges co-op with ASEAN on S China Sea” China Daily, July 21, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/21/content_15604756.htm
- 3. “China issues development plan in minority areas” China Daily, July 20, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/20/content_15604721.htm
- 4. “China reprimands Russia over vessel attack” China Daily, July 20, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/20/content_15602142.htm
- 5. “Hu vows more aid for African countries”, China Daily, July 20, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/20/content_15601562.htm
- 6. “Hu holds talks with Niger president” China Daily, July 18, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/18/content_15594962.htm
- 7. “China opposes US-Taiwan official contacts” China Daily, July 19, 2012 at http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2012-07/19/content_15601442.htm