'Golden era' links boosted at China-UK dialogue

Chinese and British leaders reaffirmed their keen willingness to strengthen the two countries' "golden era" of relations at the 8th China UK Strategic Dialogue in London on Tuesday.

The annual dialogue, led by China's State Councilor Yang Jiechi and British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, follows the September meeting between President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Theresa May at the G20 Leaders Summit in Hangzhou.

Both sides agreed to implement the two countries' leaders' agreement to increase strategic communication, improve political trust, deepen win-win collaboration and push forward China-UK ties under the current new landscape for development, and together work for global peace, development and stability.

Yang suggested the two countries should take advantage of the 45th anniversary of the establishment of ambassadorial-level diplomatic relations, to strengthen exchanges at different levels, to achieve fruitful results in investment, trade, financial services, innovation, infrastructure development and other fields.

Yang said the two sides should increase cultural exchanges and collaboration, and become strategic partners with a shared vision, mutual respect, trust, and learn from each other, to achieve common growth and development.

Johnson said the UK government should stay firm in developing its strategic partnership with China, to boost the China-UK "golden era" of relations.

Johnson said the UK is willing to increase strategic communication with China, to strengthen collaboration in sectors including trade, investment, aviation and infrastructure development. The two countries should join to respond to significant international challenges and strengthen coordination on important globally issues.

The two sides also exchanged views on international relations and regional issues of common concern, and released a statement on issues related to Afghanistan.