China and Romania could conduct closer youth exchanges and educational cooperation, and strengthen cultural exchanges, visiting Romanian President Traian Basescu said on Wednesday in Beijing.

Basescu delivered a speech in the Beijing-based Chinese Foreign Affairs University, which specializes in international studies and diplomacy, and answered questions from students on bilateral relations and cooperation.

Basescu said that there are more than 100 Chinese overseas students studying in Romania, as well as some Romanian students studying in Beijing and Shanghai. He voiced the hope that the two sides could increase the number of the students studying abroad and carry out more youth exchange activities.

As for cultural exchanges, he said, China will set up a Confucius institute in Bucharest of Romania this year, and Romania will establish a cultural center in China.

The cultural exchange is crucial for the growth of bilateral relations, and will help the people of both countries to better know each other, Basescu said, noting there are many Romanians interested in Chinese history, culture and traditions.

Basescu also spoke positively of Romania-China relations, acknowledging that the two countries, having a tradition of friendship, are developing bilateral relations in a sincere and active manner. China is the major partner of Romania in the Asia-Pacific region, he added.

Romania will adhere to its persistent stance and policies on the Taiwan issue, Basescu said, stressing that there is only one China in the world and the Taiwan issue is China's internal affair.

He also encouraged more Chinese companies to invest in Romania and called for the two sides to enhance cooperation in economy and trade.

President Basescu is paying a three-day state visit to China from March 27 to 29, at the invitation of his Chinese counterpart President Hu Jintao.

Source: Xinhua