To strengthen regional cooperation in Asia is not only an important component of China's foreign policy in the new era, but also the requirement of China's own development, said Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao Tuesday in Qingdao.

Addressing the opening ceremony of the third foreign ministers'meeting of the Asia Cooperation Dialogue, Wen said China is a developing country with a population of 1.3 billion and handling things well in China goes further to contribute to peace and development in Asia.

Enhanced energy cooperation is necessary to safeguard Asian energy security and promote economic development in all countries. Therefore, the Chinese government is actively pushing for the publication of the Qingdao Initiative, he said.

China's development cannot be separated from the support and help from all Asian countries, said Wen. The Chinese government will play a more active part in various multilateral processes that are aimed at promoting Asian cooperation.

"We will honor our commitments and fulfill our responsibilities," he said, adding that while strengthening cooperation with East Asian countries, China will further expand cooperation with South, Central and West Asian countries.

"China will never pursue hegemony," he stressed.

Wen promised to continue to value and support Asia Cooperation Dialogue, and said "the Chinese side highly appreciates the contributions made by Prime Minister Thaksin and the Thai government in this regard, and will make concerted efforts with all parties to turn this dialogue into a bridge for enhancing communication and increasing mutual trust among Asian countries."

China will unswervingly uphold the policy of "building an amicable, tranquil and prosperous neighborhood," he said.

"We hope to see our friends and neighbors better off. What China craves for is an Asia and a world full of the beauty of spring," Wen said.

Source: Xinhua