China's central bank governor, Zhou Xiaochuan, reiterated those ideas early Wednesday, but they boosted spirits in Europe, nonetheless, underscoring how eagerly investors are hoping for a miracle.
Earlier, Asian shares rode news that Japan's central bank would further loosen monetary policy, raising hopes that would lift its powerhouse export sector.
The Nikkei 225 index in Tokyo soared 2.3 percent to close at 9,260.34, its highest close since Aug. 5. South Korea's Kospi gained 1.1 percent to 2,025.32, while Hong Kong's Hang Seng jumped 2.1 percent to 21,365.23, its highest finish since Aug. 4.
Mainland Chinese shares advanced with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index climbing 0.9 percent to 2,366.70, its highest close this year. The Shenzhen Composite Index gained 1.5 percent to 925.99.
Benchmark oil for March delivery moved up 84 cents to $101.58, also brushing off troubles in Greece to focus on tensions in the Middle East that could lead to a tightening of supplies.
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Associated Press writers Gabriele Steinhauser in Brussels, Pamela Sampson in Bangkok, Pan Pylas in London and Joe McDonald in Beijing contributed to this report.
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
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