President Hu Jintao said that China supports the international community's fight against terrorism, and backs expanded cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region for control of infectious diseases.

 

He made the remarks at the 12th Economic Leaders' Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, which opened at Espacio Riesco Convention Centre on Saturday in Santiago, the Chilean capital.

 

Hu said that, as the Asia-Pacific region has been haunted by terrorist attacks, it is timely and imperative for APEC to address issues of security.

 

International cooperation has proven the most effective means in this regard since the attacks of September 11, as actions by a single country usually pale in the face of transnational terrorist organizations and their activities, according to Hu.

 

Hu said China supports the international community making collective moves against all kinds of terrorism, guided by the UN Charter and complying with international law.

 

He hailed APEC's efforts in recent years to reinforce its members' anti-terrorism capabilities and safeguard security.

 

In particular, the regional body's advocacy for trade safety suits the needs of the businesses in trade and investment, and falls into the category of international anti-terrorism cooperation, he said.

 

Talking about medical progress, particularly with respect to infectious diseases, Hu said problems can hinder economic and social development if not properly resolved.

 

He cited the deplorable losses brought about by the outbreak of SARS (severe acute respiratory syndrome) and bird flu in over the past two and half years. AIDS, which is prevalent in the Asian-Pacific region, is also having a tremendous impact on the social and economic development of APEC members.

 

At the organization’s CEO summit the day before, Hu called on visionary political leaders and responsible business people to work together to achieve sustainable growth through collaboration. He said that a more prosperous China is destined to offer additional business opportunities to the rest of the world.

 

China now represents an export market of more than US$500 billion a year, and is committed to continued opening up and increased participation in economic globalization.

 

Founded in 1989, APEC is the premier forum for facilitating economic growth, cooperation, and trade and investment in the region. The two-day Economic Leaders' Meeting is the top annual gathering of the organization.

 

Under the theme of "One Community, Our Future," leaders from 21 member economies discussed APEC's role in promoting trade and free-trade agreements during the Economic Leaders' Meeting.

 

It was followed by the APEC Business Advisory Council on Saturday afternoon, when senior business executives told leaders that they believe a rapid and successful conclusion to the Doha Development Agenda negotiations is the top priority for the region’s economy.

 

(China Daily November 22, 2004)