MANILA, Nov. 14 (Xinhua) -- China proposes to advance the construction of an East Asia Economic Community so as to promote regional integration and common development, Chinese Premier Li Keqiang said here Tuesday.

Addressing the 20th ASEAN-China, Japan and Republic of Korea (10+3) leaders' meeting, Li said East Asia had weathered the storm of two financial crises and is now one of the world's most dynamic and promising regions in terms of development.

Last year, East Asia accounted for 44 percent of the world's economic growth, he noted.

To establish an East Asia Economic Community is a strategic goal of the 10+3 cooperation and accords with the long-term and fundamental interests of the peoples in this region, said the Chinese premier.

With the rise of anti-globalization sentiments and trade protectionism worldwide, Li said it is time to push for the construction of such a community in East Asia so as to make the region an important engine of global economic recovery.

Li is in the Philippine capital of Manila for an official visit to the country and a series of leaders' meetings on East Asia cooperation.