Speaking at the ceremony, Minh emphasised CAEXPO is a highly effective model of cooperation between ASEAN and China. He said the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) which is currently being negotiated by ASEAN, China and other partners will bring about tremendous economic benefits for all parties. He took the occasion to call on ASEAN and China to work closely together to maintain peace, stability and security of navigation in the East Sea. He also urged ASEAN and China to seriously implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and adopt a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) based on international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982). This year’s CAEXPO has attracted 2,330 businesses showcasing their products and services in over 4,600 pavilions. Vietnam, the largest ASEAN exhibitor, has around 100 businesses displaying products and services in nearly 200 pavilions and nearly 100 others participating in meetings and seminars.