China called on the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) to help the developing nations on Tuesday.

"The UNESCAP should continue to take its own advantage to help the developing countries and push forward the substantial cooperation of all Asia-Pacific nations," said Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan.

Tang made the remarks during a meeting with Noeleen Heyzer, executive secretary of the UNESCAP.

Tang said the Asia-Pacific region now is facing the rare opportunities as well as the challenges.

He added that China values the important role of the UNESCAP and will strengthen the cooperation to enhance the economic and social development of the region.

Heyzer said the UNESCAP would like to work with China to promote the balanced and sustainable development of the region in the social, economic and ecological fields and achieve common prosperity.

(Xinhua News Agency January 23, 2008)