BEIJING - Asia-Pacific countries need to strengthen cooperation due to the current international financial situation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Weimin said Friday when commenting on ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

"All sides discussed East Asia regional cooperation and major international and regional issues at the meeting and thoroughly exchanged views. China's views and positions have gained many countries appreciation and support," Liu said.

He said the influence of international financial crisis was still prominent and the economic recovery was anemic. Asia-Pacific countries should upgrade cooperation level, broaden cooperation fields and create a better environment for regional stability and development.

East Asia regional cooperation has achieved important results over the years and made contributions to regional stability and development, he said, China also has made great efforts in this regard and was appreciated by countries in the region.

China has always attached great importance to developing strategic partnership with ASEAN countries and supported ASEAN community construction, he noted.

Liu also made remarks on the South China Sea issue. "It is very important for all relevant parties to earnestly respect and abide by the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and resolve current dispute through friendly discussions. All parties need to keep self-restraint and avoid actions that complicate and escalate the dispute," he said.