BEIJING -- Premier Li Keqiang said Wednesday that China is willing to cooperate with various countries in the peaceful use of nuclear energy on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.

He made the remarks in a congratulatory message sent to the 20th Pacific Basin Nuclear Conference, which opened on Wednesday in Beijing.

"The Chinese government attaches great importance to the development of nuclear power in a safe and efficient manner," said Li, adding that the country has created generation III nuclear power reactors, built a number of plants and established a comparatively complete nuclear science and technology industry system.

The peaceful use of nuclear energy plays an irreplaceable role in securing the energy supply, promoting economic growth, addressing climate change and improving people's lives, he said.

The premier said he hoped attendees at the nuclear conference could share their insights and contribute to the development of the industry.

The current conference, co-hosted by the Chinese Nuclear Society and the Pacific Nuclear Council, has attracted more than 800 attendees from more than 40 countries.