TOKYO: The leaders of Japan, China, South Korea and the 10 member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations agreed on Tuesday to work closely to bring the coronavirus pandemic under control.

In a videoconference, the leaders also confirmed the countries' intentions to cooperate in developing medicines early for the COVID-19 disease caused by the virus and adopted a joint statement in which they pledged to coordinate in specific areas.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe unveiled a plan to establish a center to support the ASEAN nations' efforts to bolster measures against infectious diseases.

This was the first videoconference among leaders of the ASEAN countries and the three East Asian nations.

"International cooperation is essential for combating the virus that is spreading beyond borders," Abe said. "We should share information and knowledge in a free, transparent and swift manner," he also said.

The Japanese leader stressed his eagerness to "accelerate the development COVID-19 drugs at once by combining global wisdom."

Abe explained that Japan will expand clinical research of Avigan while several leaders showed interests in the influenza drug, for which expectations for use as COVID-19 remedy are growing. The drug was developed by Japan's Fujifilm Toyama Chemical Co.

Abe said that Japan, China, South Korea and the ASEAN members should unite in the coronavirus crisis and maintain the distribution of protective suits and medical goods.

During the videoconference, participants explained their nations' measures against the virus.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in reported that the country has conducted drive-thru coronavirus tests, according to the presidential office.

China was represented by Premier Li Keqiang at the video meeting.

"Coordination in East Asian is also important," Abe told reporters after the videoconference. "I want to take the leadership," he added.

The videoconference was held at the request of Vietnam, which serves as ASEAN chair this year.

JIJI Press