The United Kingdom needs to reassure China concerning its relations with the Dalai Lama, said an article in People's Daily (excerpts below)

British Foreign Secretary William Hague vowed to respect the integrity of China's sovereignty and territory and recognized Tibet as a part of China on June 24. He does not support Tibet's independence.

It has hardly been a secret that Sino-UK relations were at a low ebb in the past year.

UK politicians recognize that China is a major and constructive player on the world stage.

The different historical and cultural backgrounds of China and the UK are not obstacles facing the two countries but provide an opportunity for them to work together on a number of issues.

China has always been receptive to progress in international relations. Working in partnership with other countries is the best and only way to improve the global situation.