BEIJING, May 19 (People’s Daily Online) -- In the 21th century the world cannot be imagined without very close relationship between China and Europe. Better economic relations with China not only benefits China but also Europe, said Victor Ponta, former president of the Socialist and Democratic Party and former Prime Minister of Romania in an interview with People's Daily Online.

Ponta is in Beijing to attend the 5th China-Europe High-level Political Parties Forum held from May 17-18. He believes these forums are very useful initiatives from both the Chinese side and European side. "I think political decisions should be taken into joint consideration by the European political parties and Communist Party of China because only taking these decisions we will develop and work together for the good of our people," said Ponta.

Ponta has a high opinion of China's contribution to global peace. "I think the role China is playing in the world not only as the second largest economy but also a dynamic player on the international level is absolutely essential. The world now obviously cannot work on the peaceful development without the contribution of China. I congratulate Chinese people and Chinese leaders for all the work in the last decade," he said.

2016 is the 95th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China. Ponta expressed his best wishes for the CPC. "I am very happy to be in Beijing on this special day, the anniversary. I wish the CPC and Chinese people all the best on behalf of the people of Romania, a country that has always been China's friend and partner. Now China is an important and respected nation on the international stage," he said.

Ponta made his first visit to China 15 years ago, and the progress China made in recent years has deeply impressed him. He said, "Every time I come here I see an improvement in the standard of livings, the advancement in institutions and infrastructure. Every person feels an improvement of his personal status. Every year I have seen China become more open to the world. I think Europe not only can learn a lot from China's economic fast development, but also the political and social stability. That's something sometimes Europe should be jealous about. That's why just showing respect, knowing and loving each other every time more will make China and Europe better for the generations to come."