Since 2008, Piva often has been invited to speak about Chinese management and leadership at Italian universities, to talk about key Chinese concepts of management and to share his experience working for a Chinese company with European students.

In July 2008, Piva was given the honorary citizen award from Hengdian city and in September 2009, the Zhejiang government gave him the prestigious West Lake Friendship Award for his contribution to the good business relationship between Zhejiang and Europe.

In 2010, as one of the foreigners who had made outstanding contribution to China, Piva was presented with another award from then vice-premier Zhang Dejiang in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.

During his trip to Beijing, Piva visited the mausoleum of Matteo Ricci. He is looking for investment to make a film based on the story of Matteo Ricci.

"Father Ricci was a very humble person," he says. "He realized that, in order to live and work in China, you need to understand its ancient and magnificent culture, its ethical values and to respect the strong identity of its people.

"This is the secret to succeed in China, and it has never changed."

Q&A

What's the secret to your success in China?

In regards to work, you need to have superior knowledge and excellent skills as competition is tough. Especially in China, you must also develop strong relationships. Also you must be patient and flexible during the execution but strict and demanding in regards to the final result.

What's your Chinese Dream?

My wish is that everywhere, China included, there will be more respect and love for elderly people and people who need assistance, not only outside in the streets but also in our hearts. This is also a way to contribute to a harmonious society.

What will China be like in 20 years?

This is a very difficult question as the world is changing so quickly. I hope that China, even in 20 years time, will continue to learn and maintain its present humility rather than assume the role of "teacher" (as many others are now doing). Then China will be the real number 1 in the world.