China: China wants Southeast Asian Nations to strengthen defense cooperation.

(From Thai Press Reports)

Section: Regional News - Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao is calling on Southeast Asian nations to boost military cooperation with China. Wen's call for more military exchanges and dialogue came at a meeting with leaders of the ten countries making up the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, ASEAN. The meeting marks the 15th anniversary of the establishment of China's ties with the grouping.

The purpose of the meeting in the southern Chinese city of Nanning Monday offers a stark contrast to the motives behind the founding of ASEAN 39 years ago. Then, Southeast Asian nations aimed to contain Communist China's efforts to spread revolution in the region.

Now, they are embracing China, and the trade opportunities brought by its skyrocketing economy and burgeoning markets. Chinese officials say trade between …