Instead of arousing confrontation and conflict, all should abide by established rules and seek resolutions in a peaceful way and through political means.

"We've always held that countries, big or small, rich or poor, strong or weak, must all abide by laws and rules. We are always committed to peaceful development," he said.

To add impetus to Eurasian partnership, Li proposed guiding Asia-Europe cooperation, especially in economy and trade, by a more pragmatic course.

To this end, the premier said he expected ASEM's Economic Ministers' Meeting would resume next year after a decade long suspension, and called for efforts to speed up the development of an open and inclusive Asia-Europe market.

The premier also highlighted the need to fortify the human and cultural aspects of the cooperation between Asia and Europe, saying that there should be more dialogues between different civilizations, and more exchanges in education, science, tourism and culture.

Li also touched on China's economic situation, saying that the world's second-largest economy is confident it will reach its growth target.

Zhao Junjie, an expert on European studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the proposals raised by the premier show that "Chinese leaders are considering the strategic direction of Asia-Europe cooperation", as the world situation has changed significantly since ASEM was initiated two decades ago.

"Europe has been stricken with a refugee crisis and terrorist attacks. It is apparent that the premier paid close attention to the problems facing Europe and put forward countermeasures in his first proposal."

Contact the writers at zhaohuanxin@chinadaily.com.cn