Chinese premier thanks Australia for search help

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang (R) shakes hands with Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott during the annual talks between the two countries' government leaders, in Sanya City, south China's Hainan Province, April 9, 2014. (Xinhua/Li Xueren)

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday appreciated Australia's efforts in searching missing flight MH370. [Special coverage]

"Shortly after the welcome ceremony, you gave me another update on the search for flight MH370," Li said at the beginning of the talks with visiting Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott, who is here to attend the annual conference of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA).

Li said he felt it was heartening news that the Australian prime minister was confident of "a certain conclusion to this event."

He said he was heartening to hear the prime minister tell him that the "Australia side is doing its utmost".

Li also thanked Abbot for assistance from Australia in China's search, saying the international cooperation showed countries in the region are capable of handling challenges with concerted efforts.

Abbott appreciated "how committed China is to the search of MH370", and voiced gratitude for China' s efforts in the search. He said Australia will continue to coordinate search work.

Prior to the talks, the two countries' foreign ministers also met on bilateral ties and the search.