BEIJING, Oct. 29 (Xinhuanet) -- The first China International Import Expo (CIIE) is a very important gathering in terms of stimulating the global economy, British official Dan Jarvis said.

The CIIE, which is to be held on Nov. 5-10 in Shanghai, is the first ever Chinese fair focusing exclusively on imported goods and services. More than 2,800 companies from over 130 countries and regions have confirmed participation in the event.

Dan Jarvis, the first Mayor of Sheffield City Region said “ it demonstrates the importance that China has within the global economy.”

Jarvis, also the MP for Barnsley Central, stressed that it's vital to be there and have conversations, forge links, explore potential trade opportunities and develop partnerships.

He made the remarks during a recent interview with Xinhuanet.

When talking about China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Jarvis expressed his admiration for the Initiative, given the challenges that the global economy has faced.

“If we want to grow our economies, we need to make sure they are interconnected,” Jarvis said. “So having that transport infrastructure is absolutely vital.”

He expects to see opportunities for companies in his region to engage in the Initiative in the future.

Another UK official also agreed with him.

Eva Bolander, Lord Provost of Glasgow and a Councillor with Glasgow City Council, said “the Belt and Road Initiative is a fantastic and welcomed initiative in so many ways.”

It is not just about building infrastructures, but also about linking out with other regions and areas as well, she added during a separate interview.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of China's reform and opening up. Both officials spoke highly of China’s achievements over the past 40 years and expect further cooperation.

Jarvis said he is particularly impressed by the achievements China has made in poverty alleviation and the fact that millions of people have their standard of living very significantly improved.

As Britain is to leave the European Union (EU), China is a natural partner as it shares many of the same challenges with UK, said Jarvis, adding that it is incredibly important for the two countries to continue to forge a closer relationship.

“China is a fascinating country, it contributed such a lot not just in economic terms, but culturally and socially as well, and I think the world is a better place if we can have those relationships and get to know each other and work constructively and productively with each other,” said Jarvis.

Bolander said the impact of reform and opening up is immense as much more collaboration has been established between the countries and regions.

“40 years ago there is very little of that. So that is a very tangible effect of the opening up of China,” she said.

For Glasgow, China’s ability of developing ideas and technological skills can help commercialize the innovative ideas, she added.