* Amid rising geopolitical tensions and sluggish economic recovery, China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have pledged closer ties to counter global challenges, injecting certainty and new momentum into regional growth and stability.* During the 26th China-ASEAN Summit, ASEAN countries said they will strengthen the synergy of the BRI, and strengthen cooperation in areas including agriculture, trade, investment, digital economy, technology, education and culture.