Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao called on Sunday in Helsinki for expanding Asia-Europe cooperation to ensure energy security and expressed his support for the multilateral trading system to achieve common development.

While addressing the sixth summit of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) held in the Finnish capital, Wen said "China calls on ASEM to conduct more dialogue on energy security."

ASEM members should, through enhanced dialogue and cooperation, work to improve the global energy market mechanism, develop traditional energies in a rational way and rigorously develop renewable energies, said Wen.

He called on ASEM members to boost the research, development and application of advanced energy technologies to enhance energy conservation and efficiency.

The Chinese premier suggested the establishment of a proper technology transfer system to help developing countries use energy more efficiently.

A sound political environment should be ensured for energy security and stability, he said, noting that geopolitical disputes should not block the global energy supply and energy issues should not be politicized.

On the multilateral trading system, the Chinese leader said maintaining order in global trade is in the interests of both Asia and Europe, noting suspension of the Doha Round of talks at the World Trade Organization is in no one's interests.

Wen called on major developed countries to show their political will and demonstrate greater flexibility in cutting agricultural subsidies and tariffs to create conditions for resuming the talks.

As Asian and European economies enjoy respective strengths and complement each other, all ASEM members should fight protectionism, properly handle trade disputes, refrain from politicizing trade issues, improve trade and investment environment, enhance economic cooperation and realize common development.

The biennial summit, slated for Sept. 10-11 under the theme "10 Years of ASEM: Global Challenges-Joint Responses," gathers heads of state or government from 13 Asian countries and all the 25 EU member states.

The ASEM cooperation was initiated in 1996 with a view of strengthening dialogue and interaction between Asia and Europe. This year's summit is hosted by Finland, which now holds the EU rotating presidency.

Source: Xinhua