The Chinese government supports UN's leading role in promoting international cooperation to curb climate change, Premier Wen Jiabao said in Beijing Friday.

Wen made the remarks while meeting with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, who arrived in Beijing Thursday evening for a four-day visit.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) meets with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in Beijing , China, July 24, 2009. [Xinhua]

Calling the United Nations a core player of the international system, Wen said the organization has played an important role in settling major international and regional issues as well as global challenges.

He assured Ban of continued support for the UN work and the country's contribution to world peace and development.

Wen urged the international community to pay close attention to the impact of global financial crisis on developing countries, and to attach great importance to their interests and concerns.

 

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (R) meets with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon in Beijing , China, July 24, 2009. [Xinhua]

"The climate change issue is both an environmental and development problem," Wen said, noting developed countries should offer more concrete help to developing nations in fund, technology and capability building, which helps the sustainable development of the whole world.

Ban expressed appreciation over China's long-term efforts in promoting world peace and common development. He said the United Nations hopes to strengthen cooperation with China to tackle global challenges including economic downturn, regional conflicts, climate change and food security.

He praised China's efforts in energy conservation and emission reduction. He stressed it is of key importance to stick to the principle of "common but differentiated responsibilities" when responding to climate change, and to take into consideration the interests and voices of developing countries.

Ban also expressed hope for a fruitful Copenhagen summit on climate change in December with joint efforts from all parties concerned.

(Xinhua News Agency July 25, 2009)