President Hu Jintao said yesterday China's future hinges on a peaceful Asia, urging neighbours to build mutual trust and pave the way for a new framework on security. The call came during the one-day summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures in Asia which Mr Hu attended in Kazakhstan's scientific, culture and economic centre Almaty, Xinhua reported. 'Asia is crucial for China's development,' Mr Hu was quoted as saying. 'China pursues a foreign policy of fostering a harmonious, secure and prosperous neighbouring environment.' The report said Mr Hu called on fellow summit members and observer countries to build common interests while respecting their diverse backgrounds. 'We should respect every country's right to safeguard national unity, pursue its development strategy and formulate domestic and foreign policies independently.' On the economic front, President Hu suggested Asian nations enhance co-operation in energy, transport, finance, agriculture, telecommunications and public health. The first summit of the conference group was held in 2002.
