Chinese FM responses to inquiry about signing the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty

In response to a media enquiry regarding whether China agrees to become a signatory to the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone Treaty (SEANWFZ) along with Russia, and if so, why China has made this decision now, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Thursday that as ASEAN's comprehensive strategic partner and friendly neighbor, China has always firmly supported the establishment of a Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone. 

China and Russia have agreed to become signatories to the SEANWFZ, while the US is currently reviewing the treaty before signing, said Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan, as reported by Malaysian National News Agency Bernama.

Mohamad said the involvement of superpowers in the treaty would help preserve Southeast Asia as a region of peace, free of nuclear weapons, per Bernama.

"We have repeatedly made it clear that we are willing to be the first to sign the treaty. China is willing to continue communicating with ASEAN members regarding the signing of the protocol," Mao said.