Framework exists for a peaceful Asian century

Re: "North Asia's new leaders must work together", Editorial, December 31.

This assessment - according to which the outlook for Asia in 2013 does not look so good - has to be taken seriously. The new leaders in north Asia must find appropriate political and diplomatic ways to break the current impasse and rebuild bridges in order to reach lasting, peaceful solutions.

"The Asian century" might have a real historic significance, but only if it is a peaceful one.

An important diplomatic document entitled the "Declaration of the 6th East Asia Summit on the Principles for Mutually Beneficial Relations", dated November 19, 2011, offers the necessary guidance on the matters under consideration.

Indeed, by this declaration, the 10 members of Asean as well as Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia and the US reiterated their commitment to creating a peaceful environment to further enhance cooperation and strengthen the existing bonds of friendship among them. Moreover, they specifically declared that they are guided in their relationships by a number of clear principles of public international law, including renunciation of the threat or use of force against another state, and settlement of differences and disputes by peaceful means.

Giving tangibility to all commitments contained in the declaration must be a high priority for all its 18 co-authors. It has to be further illustrated by persuasive political and diplomatic acts conducive to genuine regional peace, without which world peace is not possible.

Ioan Voicu

Bangkok