Introduction

Former Croatian President Ivo Josipovic recently said in an exclusive interview with China Daily China Observation Think Tank that the increasingly close cultural exchanges between China and Europe are the basis for building better political and economic relations and help enhance mutual understanding between countries. The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence still have far-reaching influence in today's international community. The win-win concept contained in the "Belt and Road" initiative is of great significance to small and medium-sized countries and provides a unique opportunity for cooperation between China and Czech Republic.

The Belt and Road Initiative brings win-win results

Nowadays, China and Czech Republic exchanges in economic and political aspects are becoming more and more frequent. Especially in Croatia, we have completed a great collaborative project. It is the Perechac Bridge, which was built in extremely short time and with extremely high quality. We are very satisfied with this cooperation and we believe that this cooperation model can also be used on other projects.

The Belt and Road Initiative is an important initiative proposed by China. Of course, some countries will have concerns about China's large-scale projects, but I think this is a valuable cooperation opportunity for both sides, and both sides can make profits from it. Nowadays, more and more Croatians are doing business in China, and many people in China are doing business in Croatia, ranging from private enterprises, such as restaurants, small shopping malls, and important large-scale infrastructure projects like the ones we are working with now.

I think the idea proposed by the Chinese government and its leaders is a win-win principle, which is especially beneficial to small countries. Any initiative aimed at promoting better and deeper collaboration is welcome.

Multicultural exchange promotes mutual understanding

I have been to 10-12 Chinese cities, including Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Tianjin, etc. I like every city because they are different. Beijing and Shanghai cannot be compared directly - they perform different functions. Beijing has a more historical atmosphere, while Shanghai has a more technological sense, allowing you to experience more high-tech.

I have always emphasized that cultural exchanges between China and Europe are becoming increasingly close. Take my country Croatia as an example. There is a Confucius Institute in Croatia, where people learn Chinese, which is a new thing in Croatia. Croatian artists also often come to China, such as Maxim Mrvica, a famous pianist. He often comes to China and holds concerts in large venues, and is very popular in China. Croatian cellist Anna Ruznell has also performed in China. Chinese artists also often go to Croatia to perform.

I think cultural exchange is very important, which can enhance mutual understanding and is also the basis for building a better political and economic relationship. Any initiative aimed at promoting better and deeper collaboration is welcome.

Five principles of peaceful coexistence are still worth adhering to

I was invited to attend the 70th anniversary of the publication of the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. The Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence are important principles that China contributes to the international community. These principles are of great significance because sovereign equality among states is crucial, especially for small countries.

We advocate compliance with international law and those that advocate equal sovereignty. Of course, we also strive to cooperate with all countries regardless of their internal political systems.

It is a good thing that a big country like China has not participated in any war in the world. China's peace policy is very important, and I appreciate it very much.

I think cooperation is very important, not only for Croatia and China, but also for building a global society. Although we have differences, we are one and are all part of human beings. Of course there are differences between us, but I think we should respect each other and not interfere in each other's internal affairs.

I hope there are more wise politicians who work to bring justice and peace to conflicts around the world. But now it is difficult for us to remain optimistic. But we must not only have hope, but also take practical actions, especially today's politicians, presidents and prime ministers should do their best to prevent the war from happening.