Premier Wen Jiabao said in Beijing on Monday that the next stage of UN reform should give priority to the development issue for the benefit of developing nations. 

 

UN reform has made progress to date, Wen said in a meeting with visiting UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan. Wen added that it is especially important for the UN to function effectively under the current circumstances. 

 

The UN should enhance its authoritativeness and improve its efficiency and coordination so as to continue to contribute to world peace, and promote common development, Wen said. 

 

He said that China will fulfill its commitment to the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and continue its efforts to eliminate poverty. 

 

China will actively participate in international cooperation efforts and help more developing countries alleviate poverty and pursue development. 

 

China has cooperated well with the UN and will continue to support its and the secretary-general's work. 

 

Annan spoke highly of the important role China has played in safeguarding world peace, promoting common development and boosting international cooperation, adding that China has been supportive of the MDGs and provided long-term help to the poorer African countries.

 

China has also made important contributions to the fight against bird flu, AIDS and malaria, Annan added. He pledged that the UN will continue in its cooperation with China.

 

(Xinhua News Agency May 23, 2006)