MOSCOW - The achievement China has scored in poverty elimination over the past 30 years of economic reform and opening up is a great success, a Russian political expert said in a recent interview.

"I believe it is most impressive that 1.3 billion Chinese citizens are living better," said Yuri Tavrovsky, a professor from Moscow Friendship University.

Noticeable success in curbing poverty could be seen everywhere in China he went, in big cities, distant provinces and even in small villages, said Tavrovsky, who has been to China several times.

The Russian expert said such achievements should be attributed to wise Chinese leaders, such as Deng Xiaoping, chief architect of China's reform and opening up.

"Deng understood the strengths and weaknesses of his country and knew the ropes in the international situation," he said.

The policies implemented by the Chinese leadership still need to be adjusted from time to time to keep pace with the changing domestic and international situation, Tavrovsky said.

"It is impossible to change a ship's direction all the time, but it must be steered gently," Tavrovsky said.

He said that it is time for China to perfect its systems concerning retirement pension and healthcare service, and focus on social reforms and environmental issues.

"I think, some reconstruction will be made without shaking the entire building and the Chinese skyscraper will go on rising," he said.

Tavrovsky said a strong China is advantageous for Russia.

"Just as Prime Minister Vladimir Putin said, Russia should let the Chinese wind fill its sails," the expert said, adding that "we want Chinese wind to be strong, warm, and friendly."

A powerful China is in the interests of both countries, he said, citing a diplomatic success the two sides achieved on Syria and Iran as an example.