China, S.Korea, Japan take stance against protectionism

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA - Top officials from China, South Korea and Japan on Thursday vowed to take a strong stance against the policy of protectionism.

Economic experts and central bank chiefs from the countries met in Nadi, Fiji and agreed to step up efforts for regional trade and investment activities, Korean news agency Yonhap reported.

"We will remain vigilant against the downside risks and reaffirm our commitment to resisting all forms of protectionism, upholding an open and rule-based multilateral trade and investment system,” a joint statement released after the trilateral meeting said.

The statement comes at a time when China and the U.S. are engaged in a “trade war”.

"We agreed to further enhance communication and coordination among China, Japan and Korea to contribute to strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth,” the economic policy makers of the three countries added.

The meeting was held on the sidelines of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) conference.