LISBON, Feb. 18 (Xinhua) -- China has made a leap in its economic growth toward more quality development and improved living standards among its people during the past 40 years of reform and opening-up, Vice President of the Portuguese Parliament Jorge Lacao said Monday night.

Speaking at a reception hosted by the Chinese embassy in Portugal marking the 40th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Portugal, Lacao, who represented the speaker of the Portuguese parliament, said the friendship between the two peoples has lasted for five centuries.

The year 2019 is an extraordinary one for Portuguese-Chinese relations, with the two countries set to host cultural festivals in each other's countries, Lacao said.

He said that China's development achievements in recent decades have attracted worldwide attention. The country, he added, has made a significant leap in its economic development and raised living standards.

For his part, Chinese Ambassador to Portugal Cai Run said that the 40 years of Sino-Portuguese relations have been enlightening and produced valuable experiences for the both sides.

The two countries have always viewed their relationship from a strategic and long-term perspective, he added.

China is willing to work with Portugal in a mutually beneficial fashion, Cai said. He said both countries should better integrate their respective development strategies and work together in various fields under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

Some 400 people from both sides attended the reception, which included a photo exhibition on China's reform and opening-up. The nearly 50 pictures on display showcased China's achievements over the last four decades.