BOAO, Hainan, April 21 (Xinhua) Annual conference of Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) set discussion on disputes in Northeast Asia on agenda, aiming to help ease current tensions in the region.

    "The tensions in the region are less than conflicts," said Fidel Ramos, chairman of BFA Board at a news conference on
Thursday, believing the open and frank discussions in the forum will play "moderating roles" in cooling down the tensions so as to solve the problems in a win-win manner.

    The conference is due to open on Friday in Boao, a scenic town in south China's island province of Hainan. There will be a plenary session focusing on Northeast Asia, with representatives from China, Japan and Republic of Korea (ROK) discussing common concerns.

    "The forum will not avert sensitive issues, including the issues in Northeast Asia," said BFA Secretary-General Long Yongtu.

    China, Japan and the ROK have much in common in terms of trade, energy and security concerns, said Long. "Only when they seek commonness and step up cooperation can the three nations conduct healthy cooperation," Long told media.

    This is an open and frank forum, said Ramos, believing the non-governmental discussions in the forum would contribute to minimizing the disputes between the Northeast Asian nations. Enditem