Li to push for closer links with ASEAN countries

China is set to propose detailed initiatives aimed at improving relations and boosting trade during a series of multilateral meetings with Southeast Asian nations next week, senior officials have said.

Trade and investment between China and the ASEAN countries have surged to record highs in the run-up to the annual East Asia leaders' meetings.

Beijing is sparing no effort to encourage consolidation among regional stakeholders and prevent fragmentation, a key word observers use in reference to mistrust arising from maritime issues and the involvement of outsiders.