Premier Li Keqiang shared views on international and regional issues during an informal meeting with leaders attending the 11th Asian Europe meeting (ASEM) in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on July 16.

Premier Li said Eurasia has been able to maintain peace and stability, but still faces various traditional and non-traditional security challenges, with terrorism as the common challenge for every country.

All the nations should work together to strengthen counter-terrorism cooperation, building an open and inclusive society to eradicate the roots that breed terrorism, the Premier said.

The Premier stressed that China is committed to maintaining and developing its relations with Europe and Britain and firmly supports the EU integration. “China believes the development of Europe will not stagnate and wants to see a prosperous and stable Europe and Britain,” said the Premier.

Hoping to see a stable transition in the relationship between Britain and Europe, the Premier said “we are willing to strengthen coordination with every sides, control risks, enhance confidence and maintain the stability of International capital market and promote the recovery and growth of world economy.”

Premier Li said at last the South China Sea issue should not be discussed at multilateral occasions, and nor should it be the agenda of the ASEM summit.

But now that some countries raised it up, China is obliged to clarify its position and the fact, said the Premier.

The Premier pointed out that China never participated in the arbitration unilaterally initiated by the Philippines, so it neither accepts nor recognizes the so-called arbitration award.

“By doing so, we are both exercising our rights in accordance with international law, and safeguarding the dignity of international law,” he said.

The Premier said South China Sea arbitration award will have no impact whatsoever on China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests in the South China Sea.

Premier Li said China adheres to settlement of the South China Sea disputes via dialogue and consultation with countries directly involved on the basis of respect for historical facts and in accordance with international law, so as to safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.