Pivotal role of Asia

The three countries have overcome economic, public health and other crises through mutual support, demonstrating the importance of trilateral cooperation as the front-runner for the benefit of the region and the world.

As major economies in Asia, the trio accounted for 20 percent of the global population, 23.4 percent of the world's GDP, and 18.7 percent of the world's trade as of 2022, according to data from the TCS.

Highlighting Asia's burgeoning economic power, Liu said the collaboration within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership not only fosters economic cohesion in Asia, but also enhances the region's role as a vital engine for global growth.

"As Asia strengthens its economic ties and continues on this trajectory, its influence on the world stage is expected to expand, cementing the 21st century as the era of Asian ascendancy," he said.

Despite ups and downs in ties among the three countries due to outside interference and their historical factors, Hwang emphasized: "the synergy that will be created if the three countries cooperate".

"Asia is reemerging as a pivot of world history," he said. "It is necessary to make pan-Asian discussions, in which Asians themselves can create visions and action plans for the future of Asia."

Lee noted the key role the three nations can play in safeguarding globalization and multilateralism.

"The three countries, which have achieved economic growth through free trade and globalization, need to cooperate closely for the protection of free trade and the multilateral trade systems in a world where the free trade order is being threatened," he said.

Liu said that by committing to regular dialogue and collaboration, the trio can address common challenges and leverage their collective strengths for mutual benefit.

"The renewed focus on cooperation sets a hopeful tone for the future, where Asia can become a cornerstone of peace and development in the global arena," Liu said.

Xinhua