BEIJING, Nov. 1 (Xinhua) -- China and Russia will continue to support each other on major issues of each other's concern and in each other's core interests, Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao said in a recent interview with Russian media.

Wen had an interview with Itar-Tass News Agency and Interfax News Agency in Beijing before making an official visit to Russia next week.

During the interview, Wen said China supports Russia in its efforts to safeguard state sovereignty and territorial integrity. China supports Russia in its pursuit of the development route that suits its own national conditions and to oppose interference from outside.

Wen pointed out that the two countries should further enhance political mutual trust through exchanges between their leaders and cooperation at various levels and in various fields.

He said China and Russia should have even closer cooperation within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO). The two countries should strengthen coordination within the SCO and push it toward becoming a substantially important mechanism for regional peace, stability, security and development.

On strengthening the role of SCO, Wen said expanding regional economic cooperation and joining efforts for self-reliant growth is an effective solution for SCO member countries in their striving for development and to eradicate terrorism, separatism and extremism. It is an effective way for the people of SCO member countries to enjoy common peace and security, Wen said.

Wen said China and Russia should step up cooperation in the United Nations and other major international organizations. Noting that China and Russia share common or similar views on almost all major international issues, Wen said the two countries should work together to promote global peace, development and democratization of international relations.