As "an emerging power of the world", China plays an important role in maintaining peace, stability and development in the Asia-Pacific region, said Philippine Representative Roque R. Ablan in Beijing Monday.  

Roque R. Ablan said at the 12th Annual Meeting of the Asia-Pacific Parliamentary Forum (APPF) that China's economic growth had injected vigor into the regional development and prosperity.

US Congressman Nick Smith said China actively takes part in international cooperation in fighting terrorism and solving the Korean nuclear issue, indicating that China has made practical and fruitful efforts for promoting the regional security.

Shizuka Kamei, member of the Japanese House of Representatives, said China has not only paid attention to the domestic affairs, but also set up a cooperative partnership with the Asia-Pacific countries.

China played a more and more prominent role in the international community, with active mediation in regional and international affairs, Shizuka Kamei added.

The delegates viewed the forum as a platform to exchange views and learn from each other as friends, and to promote the bilateral and multilateral relations between the Asia-Pacific countries.

The APPF is an influential parliamentary organization in the Asia-Pacific region with 27 member countries. During the three-day annual meeting that opened here Monday afternoon, delegates from 23 APPF member countries will discuss issues concerning international politics and security, global and regional economy, and promoting regional stability and prosperity through cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency January 13, 2004)