From left: Japanese PM Shinzo Abe, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, Thai PM Prayut Chan-o-cha, and RoK President Moon Jae-in at the 22nd ASEAN-China, Japan and the Republic of Korea leaders' meeting in Bangkok, Thailand on November 4, 2019. (Photo: Yonhap/Xinhua).

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang noted that 15 member states of the RCEP have concluded all text negotiations and essentially all market access negotiations. Mr. Li said this is a major breakthrough in the construction of an East Asia free trade zone, which would boast the largest population, most diverse membership and the greatest potential for development. He added the latest progress will certainly promote the process of regional economic integration, while safeguarding free trade and boosting market confidence. Participants pledged to sign the agreement next year.