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China calls for Asia-Europe co-op for sustainable development

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-10-25 16:45

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao on Sunday called for more cooperation between Asian and European nations to promote sustainable development.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) shakes hands with European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso during the opening ceremony of the 7th Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) in Beijing October 24, 2008. [Agencies]

Wen made the remarks when addressing the behind-the-door meeting of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) to discuss issues concerning the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDG), climate change, energy security and social harmony.

Wen said all participants have agreed to take concrete actions to promote realization of the MDG all over the world as scheduled.

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To tackle the climate change issue,  the 45 ASEM members agreed to observe the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities, to actively carry out the Bali Road Map, and to push the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP15) in Copenhagen in 2009 to achieve positive fruits.

In energy areas, Wen said the ASEM members would ensure energy security, improve energy structure, speed up energy efficiency, advocate energy saving, and strengthen financing and technological support to developing nations.

As to social harmony, Wen called for adhering to the "people-centered" approach, and safeguarding social justice through the efforts of improving people's livelihood.

The Asian and European nations should increase cooperation in education, employment, social security system, ageing of the population , public healthy, and immigration areas, in a bid to promote the harmonious development of society, the premier noted.

The seventh ASEM summit opened Friday afternoon with the attendance of the leaders and representatives from 45 Asian and European nations and organizations.