(Xinhua)
Updated: 2007-08-23 23:44

Senior Chinese leader Li Changchun on Thursday called for more cooperation among Asian media to better deliver the "voice of Asia" throughout the world.

Li Changchun

"China hopes to improve the cooperation with Asian media groups and increase the voice of Asia in the international community," said Li, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, in a meeting with media representatives from ten ASEAN members, and Japan and Republic of Korea (ROK).

China would adhere to its policy of peaceful development, Li said, noting that China appreciates the 10+3 media groups to expand exchanges and cooperation with China to contribute to the establishment of a peaceful, prosperous and harmonious East Asia, Li said.

The 10+3 group comprises the ten members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and China, Japan and the ROK.

The 10+3 media managers were in Beijing to attend the first 10+3 Media Cooperation Forum held from August 21 to 23.

Li spoke highly of the topics that were discussed on the forum, especially those concerning the upcoming 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing.

"We will work closely with the International Olympic Committee and offer full support for the preparation work", Li told the representatives, expressing his welcome for the international media to intensify their coverage of the event.

The idea of the forum was suggested by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao at the tenth 10+3 summit held in January in Philippines.