BEIJING — China is willing to listen to and learn from reasonable suggestions given by partners in Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK), to provide a broader space for deepening cooperation under the Belt and Road initiative.

State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks on May 10 when attending the opening ceremony of the 2019 International Forum for Trilateral Cooperation (IFTC).

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the trilateral cooperation among China, Japan and the ROK, Wang said, adding that the cooperation is standing at a new historical starting point.

He said that over the past 20 years, the trilateral cooperation has made great progress and positive contributions in promoting the people’s welfare, maintaining peace and stability in Asia and pushing forward development and prosperity of the world.

China is willing to work with Japan and the ROK to enhance regional integration and development, Wang said.

The IFTC is an annual forum that brings together eminent scholars and policymakers to share and offer new insights into the political climate, economic cooperation and social-cultural ties among China, Japan and the ROK. The theme of this year’s forum is “Trilateral Cooperation 3.0 — Charting New Pathways to Shared Vision.”