France to sign ASEAN non-aggression pact

It wants to use political dialogue and economic, cultural and scientific ties to the 10-member ASEAN.

France will become the first European country to sign the Association of Southeast Asian Nation's (ASEAN) non-aggression treaty next week, officials said on Friday.

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French Foreign Minister Philippe Douste-Blazy will sign the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation on December 11, on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit in Cebu, 585 km south of Manila.

Through the treaty, France aims to develop its political dialogue and economic, cultural and scientific ties with the 10-member ASEAN, as well as establish a long-term partnership.