SINGAPORE, Oct. 5 (Xinhua) -- Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong called for prioritizing cooperation and keeping open amid geopolitical tensions and protectionism to create a stable and prosperous future for Asian countries while addressing the Asia Future Summit here on Thursday.
Noting that Asia has been fortunate to enjoy a peaceful, stable and increasingly globalized environment during the past few decades, Lee warned that continuous peace and economic progress in Asia is far from guaranteed in a turbulent world.
Increasing geopolitical confrontation among major countries is the first challenge to worry Asian countries, he said.
The prime minister noted that most Asian partners want to be friends with both major countries, China and the United States, and will maximize the freedom of action to keep regional cooperation going and promote openness.
Lee encouraged Asian countries to build mutual trust and cooperate pragmatically for mutual benefit.
He also described the growing nationalism and protectionism as a major threat to Asia and called on relevant leaders to demonstrate statesmanship and resolve to focus on shared interests.
The summit was jointly held by flagship Singaporean media, The Straits Times, Lianhe Zaobao and The Business Times, on Wednesday and Thursday.
Speakers across the world shared their views on geopolitical hot spots, economic issues, and social governance during the event. ■
