Chinese vice president meets former European Commission president

Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao met with former president of the European Commission Romano Prodi in Beijing on Monday.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of China-Italy ties as well as 40th anniversary of China-EU relations.

Li said China and Italy should take this year as an opportunity to strengthen substantial cooperation and deepen mutual understanding, so as to promote the China-Italy and China-Europe comprehensive strategic partnership.

Prodi, also former Prime Minister of Italy, said Europe and China should work together to cope with challenges as the world experiences profound changes.