Premier Li Keqiang answers media questions at a news conference after the closing meeting of the fourth session of China's 12th National People's Congress at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 16, 2016.. [Photo by Feng Yongbin/chinadaily.com.cn]

Premier Li Keqiang on Wednesday called on all countries in China's neighborhood and outside the region to work together to uphold regional stability.

He made the remarks when asked about tensions in the Asia-Pacific region at a press conference at the end of the annual Two Sessions.

"We hope all countries from within this region and without will work together to uphold regional stability, not the opposite. That is in the interests of all," Li said.

As for US focus on the region, he said "we think the United States has never left the Asia-Pacific region".

"And all countries can work together to enhance cooperation and properly handle differences.''

He stressed that China believes in pursuing harmonious coexistence with its neighbors.

"China needs a stable neighborhood and a peaceful international environment for its domestic development," he said, adding a growing China will remain a staunch force for upholding global peace.

Li said it is natural that some differences may arise between neighbors. "But we believe that as long as we all treat each other with sincerity and seek peaceful settlements to differences through diplomatic means, regional stability will be maintained."

Still, he added "China will not waiver in its resolve to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity".