BEIJING - Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao called for further cooperation with Singapore on Thursday as he met with Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

China's Premier Wen Jiabao and Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (L) and listen to their national anthems during an official welcoming ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing September 6, 2012.[Photo/Agencies]

Noting that China and Singapore have maintained close contact and enjoyed fruitful cooperation over the years, Wen said the development of the two countries' relations brought benefit to both people and generated a positive influence in East Asia.

Wen called on the two countries to further enhance strategic communication and respect each other's major concerns.

"The two sides should upgrade the construction of Suzhou Industrial Park and Tianjin Eco-city to a higher level, explore effective means of cooperation in investment, finance and the green economy, strengthen coordination on marine protection and anti-piracy, and expand communication between young people and between the media," he said.

Wen said East Asia had maintained stability during the international financial crisis and enjoyed rapid economic growth. He said it was of vital importance to strengthen ties between China and ASEAN and deepen their cooperation to promote mutual benefit so as to maintain the good situation.

"China hopes Singapore will

 continue to play its important role in this regard," he added.

Lee said it was in both interests to promote the two countries' relations and that Singapore was willing to further enhance the comprehensive development of relations by deepening the mutual understanding. He is also looking to explore new cooperation fields and strengthen the friendship between the people of the two countries.

"Singapore will continue to help promote cooperation between China and ASEAN and work with China to safeguard regional peace, stability and development," he said.

Wen and Lee attended the signing ceremony of bilateral cooperation documents after their meeting.

China's Premier Wen Jiabao (R) and Singapore's Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong toast during a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing September 6, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]