Former German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder on Tuesday called for broad Europe-China cooperation in investment, energy and environmental protection.

He made the remarks at the on-going 8th Euro-China Forum in Tianjin, the first such forum held in China.

The European Union and China should work to set up more joint ventures while seeking to expand trade, Schroeder said in Tianjin. The EU should welcome Chinese investment and see it as an opportunity.

The EU nations could help China improve energy efficiency, use more clean energy and better tackle air and water pollution, Schroeder said.

The German noted that both sides should make more efforts to build mutual respect and boost exchanges in fields such as politics, economy, culture and society.

Schroeder also said China should play a more active role in international organizations and exert a bigger influence in world politics and economy.

The Euro-China Forum, on April 28 and 29, is aimed at addressing global challenges through strengthening Sino-EU cooperation.

(Xinhua News Agency April 28, 2009)