Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao pledged on Monday to promote Asia-Europe cooperation with a strategic and long-term perspective.
While addressing the opening of the eighth Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) summit, Wen said Asia-Europe cooperation now stands at a new historical starting point and faces new development opportunities.
"With the joining of Australia, New Zealand and Russia, ASEM partners have formed a close-knit community of interests, covering the entire Eurasian continent from east to west," he said.
Wen urged all members to seize the opportunities and step up cooperation in promoting world economic growth, reforming the global financial system, addressing major global challenges, facilitating exchanges among various civilizations, and maintaining peace and stability within Asia and Europe.
"China is firmly committed to Asia-Europe cooperation," the Chinese premier said, adding that it has been resolute to encourage political dialogue, economic cooperation and cultural exchanges among ASEM partners. China will continue to work for strengthening and deepening the new Asia-Europe partnership.
Wen arrived in Belgium for the summit after concluding his visit to Greece earlier in the day. He would also attend a China-European Union (EU) summit in Brussels and pay visits to Italy and Turkey.
Established in March 1996 in Bangkok, Thailand, ASEM now functions as the major forum for dialogues among Asian and European leaders.
A theme would be chosen to highlight focus of the biennial summit. This year's theme is "Quality of life, achieving greater well being and more dignity for all citizens."
Source: Xinhua
