Speaking highly of the results achieved over the past 10 years since the establishment of China-Portugal comprehensive strategic partnership, Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa pledged to step up bilateral cooperation in an exclusive interview with the People’s Daily.

"The vibrant Portugal-China relations have yielded fruitful results in politics, economy, culture and other fields," said the president, adding that both sides have signed multiple bilateral agreements in numerous mutual visits.

University cooperation has been growing in recent years. "Though most Chinese students come to Portugal to learn the language, they are starting to show more interests in environmental technology, renewable energy, bio-tech, nano-tech and marine science," said Rebelo de Sousa.

Yang Zhenwu (L), President of People's Daily, presents The Allusions of Xi Jinping to Rebelo de Sousa as a gift.

As for the economic and trade ties, the Portugal leader pointed out that commodity trade and financial investment between China and Portugal have maintained an active momentum.

Tourism is also a key area for bilateral cooperation. "I am looking forward to seeing more Chinese tourists travelling to Portugal," he said.

Recognizing great potential in the closeness as well as diversity of the Portugal-China cooperation, Rebelo de Sousa does not deny the significance of bilateral relations. "My fondness to China is no secret."

Productive bilateral cooperation has opened up new space and opportunities for China and Portugal to explore multi-lateral cooperation with other regions. On the basis of existing cooperation, both countries can synergize scientific research capacity to further deepen trilateral cooperation with other regions, especially with African countries, Rebelo de Sousa noted.

Portugal’s founding membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank also demonstrates the country’s determination to strengthen cooperation with China, as well as other Asian countries.

Yang Zhenwu (L), President of People's Daily, talks with Rebelo de Sousa.

When asked about intensifying cooperation in the “Belt and Road” initiative, Rebelo de Sousa said the Portuguese side hopes to become a major stop on the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.

"In my opinion, the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative is crucial to enhance commercial exchanges between China and European countries," he said, noting that as a gateway to Europe, Portugal now has great opportunities to attract foreign investment and seek cooperation with Chinese partners.

Rebelo de Sousa also vowed to endow and take a more prominent role to the Forum for Economic and Trade Co-operation between China and Portuguese-speaking countries and share more experience in the regard of football with China.