Beijing, January 16, 2025 – In a significant diplomatic meeting in Beijing, Wang Yi, a Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and China’s Foreign Minister, addressed the envoys of the 10 ASEAN countries. The focus of the discussion was a pressing issue that has been causing concern across borders – the rise of online gambling and telecom fraud, particularly in the Thai-Myanmar border region.
Wang Yi emphasized that these illegal activities have not only proliferated but have also become a severe threat to the safety and well-being of citizens from China and various other countries. He highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that these crimes directly undermine the vital interests of individuals and the stability of the region.
“Recent events in the Thai-Myanmar border area have shown an alarming increase in online gambling and telecom fraud cases,” Wang stated, underscoring the necessity for immediate and decisive action. He urged the relevant countries to take full responsibility and to implement robust measures to combat these criminal activities.
The Foreign Minister’s call to action includes not just the suppression of these crimes but also ensuring that those perpetrating them are prosecuted and brought to justice. “We must safeguard the lives and property of our people,” Wang declared, indicating the gravity with which China views this issue.
Moreover, Wang Yi expressed China’s readiness to deepen law enforcement and security cooperation with ASEAN nations. This cooperation would encompass both bilateral and multilateral frameworks aimed at creating a secure environment that supports the free movement and interaction of people across the region. Such collaborative efforts are seen as essential for maintaining good order in regional interactions and fostering continued cooperation.
The meeting in Beijing reflects China’s commitment to regional stability and security, emphasizing the need for a collective response to transnational crimes that threaten the peace and prosperity of all involved nations. Through this dialogue, China seeks to fortify its partnerships with ASEAN countries to address these challenges head-on, ensuring the safety of their citizens and the integrity of regional cooperation.