Peter Lizak, Slovak ambassador to China, emphasized the strategic partnership between the two nations, highlighting a high level of bilateral relations and expressing optimism for future collaborations in economic and cultural spheres to further enhance bilateral ties.

Having served as Slovakia's ambassador to China for more than two years, Lizak has traveled extensively across various regions of China. Unlike many of his diplomatic colleagues, Lizak's understanding of China extends beyond official duties and meetings with government officials.

A passionate ping-pong player for over 50 years, Lizak has found an additional avenue to connect with the nation. Also a well-known sport in Slovakia, ping-pong has allowed him to bond with local citizens in Beijing's parks, gaining insights into the everyday lives and transformations of ordinary Chinese citizens.

"I went jogging to the park and I saw the corner with the ping-pong equipment and the people playing there. And I was shocked twice. First was the quality of the equipment because you would expect, in the park, the tables would not be so well arranged or not kept well. But they are actually top-quality equipment," the ambassador said. "And the second shock was the quality of the people who are playing. They are playing really good."

"It's a really nice possibility to have direct contact with local people," he said. "Not all of them speak English, but some can. So I can somehow see the way they live their daily life."

"I greatly appreciate what China has achieved in the last 40 years. It's a miracle in my eyes — an economic miracle. The difference in how people lived 40 years ago compared to today is immense. I think the people are living a good life and are satisfied with it."

"I believe that China's future development will shift from focusing on quantity to quality. It mirrored the Chinese leader's call for rejuvenation," the ambassador added.

The connection between Slovakia and China transcends their shared passion for ping-pong.

With diplomatic ties dating back to 1949, China is Slovakia's largest trading partner outside the European Union. Slovakia was also one of the first European countries to sign a memorandum of understanding on Belt and Road Initiative cooperation in 2015.

"The BRI initiative is a key effort by China to engage with other countries and is evidently yielding results. We highly appreciate what has been achieved with many Chinese partners," the ambassador stated.

Last year marked a significant milestone in bilateral relations with the joint statement on establishing a strategic partnership during the visit of Robert Fico, prime minister of the Slovak Republic, to China in November.

Solid foundation

"The strategic partnership stands to confirm the high level of our relations, especially as we celebrated 75 years of diplomatic ties last year. We are one of the earliest countries to recognize China in 1949, providing a solid foundation for cooperation in all fields," Lizak noted. "On that basis, we have signed 14 memorandums in various areas last year."

Economic and cultural collaborations hold particular promise for the future. Last year, Chinese company Gotion High-Tech signed an investment agreement with Slovakia's Ministry of Economy to invest 1.23 billion euros ($1.27 billion) to construct a battery production plant for electric vehicles in Slovakia's Lower Nitra region, marking the second-largest investment project in the nation's history.

For Chinese companies, the trend of investing in Slovakia as a gateway to European and global markets will persist, as those who have tapped into its potential are pleased with their achievements, the ambassador explained.

"For Slovakia, Chinese investment means more local jobs, advanced technology, and new opportunities for research and development. Investments in the battery and automotive industries are also expected to attract further investors, given these sectors' need for local suppliers."

Vibrant cultural exchanges also play a crucial role in strengthening bilateral relations. "Last year, Slovakia had its first separate stand at the Beijing Book Fair, which was a huge success. We showcased books translated into Chinese, including children's stories, providing a positive impulse for our relations," Lizak said.

"In Slovakia, we also have projects for Chinese language education, including a secondary school where Chinese is taught as the main foreign language and even some subjects are taught in Chinese. Additionally, Confucius Institutes have been also established in the frame of partner universities in Slovakia."

This year marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the European Union and China. "It's a good opportunity to evaluate our progress, achievements, and future direction," the ambassador remarked.

"China and the European Union have experienced positive parallel development. … We should build on this foundation for the coming decades," he said.