Only through enhancing cooperation can Asian countries seize opportunities, meet challenges and realize greater development, said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao in Qingdao Tuesday.

Wen made the remarks when meeting with some foreign ministers from Asian countries who are in Qingdao to attend the third foreign ministers' meeting of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD).

Wen said that as close neighbors, Asian countries have a long history of exchanges and cooperation. Under the fast development of economic globalization and regional integration, Asian countries' interests are more closely related, and Asia's development will contribute to world peace and prosperity.

He said that since its founding two years ago, ACD has chosen 10 fields to enhance cooperation, and pragmatically promoted cooperation among Asian countries. More importantly, Asian countries have developed mutual understanding through the ACD mechanism, which has laid a solid foundation for broader cooperation among Asian countries in the future.

"As a country in Asia, China is willing to enhance cooperation with Asian countries to achieve common development and prosperity," Wen noted.

The third ACD foreign ministers' meeting will issue a Declaration on Asian Cooperation, and Qingdao Initiative, a document on energy cooperation.

"I believe the two documents will make active contribution to promoting Asian cooperation," Wen said.

(Xinhua News Agency June 23, 2004)