Chinese premier meets UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon

BEIJING, May 19 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang met with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Monday and voiced support for UN role in addressing international and regional issues.

Li commended UN efforts in world peace and stability after WWII, saying that China supports the UN in a greater role in international and regional issues, as well as in coping with various growing challenges.

Speaking of the UN work in development after 2015, Li noted that three key words: growth, tolerance and cooperation. He said the agenda should include poverty alleviation, the interests of both developed and developing countries, and a global partnership of fairness, justice and effectiveness.

Li also expressed China' s position on climate change, emphasizing that it concerns both environment and development, and the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities should be implemented.

China is willing to work with the UN to in fighting climate change and promoting common development, the premier said.

Ban praised China' s contributions to UN programs in various fields, noting that Li' s recent visit to Africa will greatly advance the development of Africa.

The UN appreciates China's assistance to Africa and efforts against pollution, Ban said, adding that the UN is ready to work with China to formulate the development agenda after 2015.

The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of common concern.