China on Sunday voiced its support for the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to play its role to address the European sovereign debt crisis.

The support was expressed by Vice Premier Li Keqiang in his meeting with visiting IMF managing director Christine Lagarde in Beijing.

"China expects the IMF to further proceed its reform process and better fulfill its role in stabilizing the global economy and international financial market," Li told Lagarde.

"China also remains open-minded to participate in and promote the IMF reform," Li added.

Li also praised the IMF efforts to increase the voices of emerging markets and developing countries on international financial matters.

The world economy and international financial market are faced with increasing risks and challenges, and the sovereign debt crisis in some countries will not be easily resolved in a short period of time, Li said.

The international community and multilateral cooperative institutions, such as the Group 20 and the IMF, should work closer and make concerted efforts to boost the global economy to a strong, sustainable and balanced growth, Li noted.

Lagarde, speaking highly of China's contribution to maintaining the stability and promoting the recovery of the world economy, said the IMF will continue to further its cooperation with China in various fields.