China on Thursday called for Asian media organizations to work closely on building a harmonious Asia.

Li Changchun, member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the call in a meeting with a delegation of Asian News Network (ANN), which consists of 19 leaders representing newspapers in 15 Asian countries and regions.

Li extended a warm welcome to the media leaders, who came to Beijing for ANN's annual meeting.

"The in-depth discussions among Asian media organizations will help increase understanding and friendship among Asian nations, strengthen Asian media cooperation and boost the development of the Asian and global media industry," Li said.

Founded in 1999, ANN is the world's biggest newspaper alliance, grouping 21 newspapers in 19 Asian countries and regions.

Li called on all members of the ANN to work more closely, spread the ideals of peace, development, cooperation and common prosperity so as to build a harmonious Asia and make contributions for a better future for Asian people.

Pana Janviroj, ANN's secretary general, said the ANN's annual meeting in Beijing enabled a better knowledge of China's development and deepened communication and friendship with Chinese media organizations.

(Xinhua News Agency April 8, 2010)