KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 12 (Xinhuanet) -- Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said here Monday that cooperation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is important and is beneficial to both sides.

    "China-ASEAN cooperation is an important component of 10+3 cooperation," Wen said in a speech at the 9th Summit of the ASEAN Plus China, Japan and South Korea (10+3).

    "To firmly support and participate in East Asia cooperation is an important component of China's foreign policy," the Chinese premier said.

    In the past five years, China has provided nearly 3 billion US dollars in economic assistance and concessional credit to ASEAN countries, Wen said.

    And of the 10 billion dollars of concessional loans and preferential export buyer's credit China would offer to developing countries in the next three years, about one third will be provided to ASEAN countries, he said.

    Wen stressed that China's support to ASEAN is "sincere without any political strings attached."

    "It serves the goal of mutual benefit and win-win result," Wen said.

    The Chinese premier also pointed out that China's development cannot be achieved without support and assistance from other East Asian countries.

    He made clear that China seeks no leadership role in regional cooperation.

    "ASEAN is the organizer of and main driving force for 10+3 cooperation...China will continue to support ASEAN in playing the leading role," said the Chinese premier.

    China is opposed to building any self-closed or exclusive bloc in the region, he said.

    "China supports 10+3 in enhancing communication and dialogue with the United States, the European Union and other countries or organizations outside the region to expand common interests and achieve common development," Wen said. Enditem