BEIJING, Jan. 26 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice President Li Yuanchao met with former president of the European Commission Romano Prodi in Beijing on Monday.

This year marks the 45th anniversary of China-Italy ties as well as 40th anniversary of China-EU relations.

Li said China and Italy should take this year as an opportunity to strengthen substantial cooperation and deepen mutual understanding, so as to promote the China-Italy and China-Europe comprehensive strategic partnership.

Prodi, also former Prime Minister of Italy, said Europe and China should work together to cope with challenges as the world experiences profound changes.