国内英语新闻:Chinese vice premier urges more participation in int'l cooperation in polar, oceanic researc

BEIJING, Jan. 30 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang Sunday urged scientists to learn from foreign experiences and increase their participation in international cooperation in polar and oceanic exploration.

Li made the remarks after meeting with members of China's 27th Chinese Antarctic expedition team, the 22nd oceanic expedition, and scientists working in the country's Antarctic and Arctic stations via video and telephone.

Li said many countries nowadays attached great importance to polar and oceanic exploration, and international competition had grown in promoting the peaceful utilization of these resources.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang (R, front) shakes hands with a senior Chinese explorer in Beijing, capital of China, Jan. 30, 2011. Li conveyed Spring Festival greetings while meeting with members of China's 27th Chinese Antarctic expedition team, the 22nd oceanic expedition, and scientists working in the country's Antarctic and Arctic stations via video and telephone on Sunday.

"We are confident and capable of constantly improving our working conditions to conduct polar and oceanic exploration, and winning the initiative in this sector's future development," Li said.

Li said the country would work to promote its marine economy and safeguard marine ecosystems, as well, and make full use of the achievements made in explorations to make reasonable development and utilization of ocean resources.

China would also ensure the security of ocean passages, and safeguard its marine rights and interests, the vice premier said.

Li also conveyed New Years greetings to the scientists for conducting research away from their homeland and families, and applauded their contribution to the country's progress in polar and oceanic research areas.