Pakistan, July 12 -- SHANGHAI - China and ASEAN have agreed to submit an upgraded free trade deal to their leaders for approval this October. The announcement came from Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi during a press briefing in Kuala Lumpur. Talks for the so-called "3.0 version" of the free trade zone began in late 2022 and were completed earlier this year in May.

The new pact goes beyond traditional trade. It focuses on modern priorities such as the digital economy, green development, and better supply chain links. Officials believe the upgrade will make regional trade smoother and more resilient. It also marks a key step in deepening China-ASEAN economic ties.

In addition to the deal, both sides agreed on a five-year action plan. Thi...