BEIJING - Chinese Vice-President Li Yuanchao on Monday met with a delegation of European Conservatives and Reformists (ECR) Group led by its chairman Martin Callanan.

Calling Europe an important pillar of the world, Li said a prosperous Europe benefits the world and China as well.

This year marks the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the all-round strategic partnership between China and Europe, said Li, calling on both sides to make the best of the opportunity to push forward cooperation in various fields.

The Communist Party of China (CPC) is willing to enhance communication with all principal groups of the European Parliament, and promote Sino-European relations onto a higher level, the vice president said.

Callanan said the ECR Group attaches great importance to the relations between Europe and China. He said they will firmly support the economic cooperation and free trade between the two sides and would like to improve their understanding of China's reform and development as well as history and culture.