China made several proposals Tuesday for Asian lawmakers to fully play their unique role in helping their own countries get the benefits of globalization while avoiding its downsides and ensuring coexistence and common prosperity of all countries.

Parliaments can strengthen legislation by formulating and implementing laws and regulations adapted to the needs of globalization and the development of the country itself, said Jin Lie, a Chinese lawmaker attending the ongoing fourth General Assembly of the Association of Asian Parliaments for Peace (AAPP) in Manila.

"Globalization calls for the establishment of a socio-economic system that fosters market economy and open trade. Parliaments may promote the establishment of a world-oriented system for national economic development and social progress through enactment and amendment of domestic laws and review and ratification of international conventions," he said in a speech at an AAPP workshop.

They can help realize social justice to minimize the negative impact of globalization, said Jin, a member of China's National People's Congress Standing Committee.

"It is vital to build a society under the rule of law, create more jobs, improve the social welfare system, narrow the gap between the rich and poor, reduce wealth disparity, protect the environment and promote sustainable development through enacting and improving relevant legislation," he said.

They should enhance dialogue among people from all walks of life and promote social stability and progress, paying special attention to the interests of the disadvantaged groups such as the elderly, women, the disabled and the low-income people, he said.

While playing an obvious role in optimizing the allocation of resources, improving economic performance and promoting global economic growth, economic globalization has also brought about a host of problems such as a greater gap between the North and the South, widening digital divide, ecological degradation and harsh challenges to sustainable development, Jin said.

"A globalized economy requires global cooperation. It is imperative for all members of the international community to push for the establishment of a fair and rational new international economic order through consultation and coordination on an equal footing," he said.

The 37-member AAPP, which began its fourth general assembly on Monday, is the largest regional parliamentary organization in Asia and the most influential platform and channel for dialogue among Asian parliaments and legislators.

The AAPP, formally launched in Dhaka, capital of Bangladesh, in September 1999, is committed to promoting peace through dialogue and policy-making for the cause of political, economic and social development.
 
(Xinhua News Agency September 3, 2003)