Nicolae Banicioiu, Vice President of the Social Democratic Party of Romania and Minister of Youth and Sports (CHEN RAN)

The First Young Political Leaders Forum of China and Central and Eastern European Countries (CEE) was held in Beijing on October 23-24. Some 100 young leaders from China and 13 CEE countries attended the forum, which presented the theme "From traditional friendships to closer cooperation."

During the forum, Beijing Review reporter Chen Ran interviewed Nicolae Banicioiu, Vice President of the Social Democratic Party of Romania and Minister of Youth and Sports, who shared his thoughts on the significance of youth exchange to the relationship between China and CEE countries.

Beijing Review: How do you view the First Young Political Leaders Forum of China and Central and Eastern European Countries?

Nicolae Banicioiu: I'm honored to attend this forum and so glad that Chinese leaders have been willing to enhance the relationship between China and Central and Eastern European countries. As the political leaders of a younger generation, we have passed down the tradition of maintaining good relations with China from our fathers' generation. We also hope to push this friendliness forward.

As the Vice President of the Social Democratic Party of Romania, what is your expectation on future prospects between your party and the Communist Party of China (CPC)?

The two parties have nurtured good relations, just like that between our two countries. The friendly communications between our two parties have already become a tradition. The year 2014 marks the 65th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Romania and China. I believe that the bilateral ties between our two countries and parties will go further and closer.

As the Minister of Youth and Sports, what role do you think youth and sports play in promoting a good relationship between China and Romania?

I think we should strengthen cooperation in education and increase exchanges of students and youth. Personally, my understanding of Chinese culture comes from communication with Chinese counterparts. I improve myself by learning your culture, which is full of wisdom. I have also gained experience from China. The inspiration I got from the process helped my work in many ways.

This is my fourth visit to China. The country has changed a lot and we hope to learn from your country. We have frequent exchanges with the Communist Youth League of China. I think our Chinese counterparts are active. They have shown high professionalism in their fields and are capable of raising constructive suggestions. Their comprehensive qualities are good. They have high aspirations for the future. This is very important for China's development. I hope that Romania and other Central and Eastern European countries can maintain the exchanges with our Chinese counterparts in the future.

Sports are a good way to promote communications among people around the world. It can be seen as a bridge for people-to-people exchanges. Romania and China should boost cooperation in sports, especially for coach and athletes. China is a rising power in sports. Romania has traditionally done well in gymnastics, where China has already surpassed us for a long time. I hope that Romania can prosper in its sports as well as China does.