Xi's love of people sets global example -- Ukrainian presidential advisor

KIEV -- China is playing an increasingly important role in global affairs, while the world needs to learn from Chinese President Xi Jinping's love of the people, said Ukrainian presidential advisor Igor Gryniv.

"Everyone understands that China is moving towards world leadership," the advisor to Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko said in a recent interview with Chinese reporters following the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC).

Noting that China's development has made itself a key global player and created new opportunities for common development of all countries, Gryniv recalled Xi's attendance at the World Economic Forum in the Swiss resort of Davos in January, saying that China formed the agenda of the forum.

"A non-European country was a key topic of the European-held forum. And the keynote speaker ... at the European forum was the Chinese leader," said Gryniv, who is also a lawmaker and one of the most influential political scientists in Ukraine.

Moreover, the Ukrainian politician stressed that China's global influence goes beyond economy and politics, as the Chinese culture, including ancient wisdom, is also becoming more and more popular.

He said he personally is a big fan of "The Art of War" written by ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu and, as campaign manager, he used the philosophy in that book in Poroshenko's presidential race.

Ukraine, he said, wants to take advantages of the opportunities stemming from China's development and stands ready to share its own with China.

"Our gates are open to China and its European strategy," he said, "Ukraine is a good starting point for entering Europe."

Given China's current success, the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation, a goal highlighted at the 19th CPC National Congress, is absolutely achievable, said the Ukrainian lawmaker.

China's inspiring domestic aspirations and increasing international influence are based on China's domestic achievements, which were ensured by the strong and wise Chinese leadership, he added.

"I know the biography of Chinese President Xi Jinping. I know the challenges that he had to go through during his life. This allows him to better understand his people and be a part of his nation," Gryniv said.

"We can learn from him that every leader should love his people, understand his people and breathe the same air as his people," he added.