Premier Li Keqiang proposes initiatives to further advance "16+1" cooperation at?the Fifth China-CEEC Summit in Riga, capital of Latvia on Saturday. Provided to chinadaily.com.cn

Premier Li Keqiang proposed initiatives to further advance "16+1" cooperation, a mechanism between China and Central and Eastern European countries, on Saturday while addressing the Fifth China-CEEC Summit in Riga, capital of Latvia.

Premier Li noted that over the past five years, "16+1" cooperation has acquired a more effective institutional framework, a more solid foundation and great prospects for further expansion. The theme chosen for the fifth summit, "connectivity, innovation, inclusiveness and common development", is both timely and relevant, he said.

The premier proposed initiatives in four areas to take forward "16+1" cooperation.

Premier Li Keqiang proposes initiatives to further advance "16+1" cooperation at?the Fifth China-CEEC Summit in Riga, capital of Latvia on Saturday. Provided to chinadaily.com.cn

First, advance cooperation on infrastructure and connectivity to help bolster CEE countries' role as a transport hub on the Eurasian Land Bridge.

Second, enhance financial cooperation to solidify the foundation for "16+1" cooperation and provide financing to joint projects through diverse forms.

Third, explore cooperation?in the?green economy, and step up cooperation in green agriculture, environmental protection and clean energy.

Fourth, intensify people-to-people exchanges by fully exploiting educational, cultural, tourism, health, local and youth cooperation mechanisms to enhance mutual understanding between the peoples of China and CEE countries.