Premier praises Phnom Penh's support

China appreciates Cambodia's role in keeping Beijing's ties with Association of Southeast Asian Nations this year and seeks to push for solidarity and cooperation among East Asian countries despite regional challenges, Premier Wen Jiabao said on Sunday.

Wen made the remarks when meeting Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen on the sidelines of the second China-Eurasia Expo.

"Wen said the overall situation in East Asia is good, yet faced with some challenges. Maintaining unity, promoting development and cooperation are the most important tasks for the region," said a press release issued by the Foreign Ministry.