'New possibilities' seen in Sino-European ties

Describing the current state of Sino-European ties, former Croatian president Ivo Josipovic said the two sides are building relationships. While admitting that "there are some differences in approach", especially where the economy was concerned, he added that "there are some new ways to cooperate (on) new possibilities".

He lauded the role of Chinese companies that built the Peljesac Bridge in his native Croatia "very quickly and with very high quality", linking the south of Croatia with the rest of the country and serving as a key strategic infrastructure. Speaking highly of the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative, under which the bridge project was implemented, he said that China, as a major country, is not engaged in wars worldwide, and its peaceful policies have proved more appealing on the global stage.

In an exclusive interview with China Daily, Josipovic highlighted increasing demand from multiple global economies for lower tariffs and more open market, adding that despite current competitions, in the long run, the situation will be much better. According to him, major economies are "opening little by little in spite of some obstacles".