President Xi Jinping meets with British representatives including former UK prime minister Gordon Brown (L, back) in London, Oct 22, 2015.[Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday thanked the British people for their contribution to promoting closer China-UK relations and said he hoped to see that cooperation strengthened.

In a meeting with personalities who included Gordon Brown, the former Labour prime minister, Xi said he was also open to suggestions on how ties could be further improved.

Xi said that, during his four-day visit to the UK, China had opted to work with the UK to build a global strategic partnership for the 21st century.

"With the deepening of reform and opening up, China provides the UK and other countries more opportunities," Xi said. "The industry exchange between China and the UK will boost the economy in both countries and benefit Chinese and British people."

He said China hopes to strengthen cooperation with the UK in the framework of the "One Belt, One Road" policy that seeks to reinforce economic and maritime links between Asia and Europe.

Xi said China adheres to peaceful development and advocates equality and friendly cooperation among all countries in the world for common development and prosperity.

"I hope you continue to support the development of China-UK relations," Xi said, adding the relationship has strengthened over the decades thanks to the efforts of British people.

As well as Brown, the gathering was attended by Stephen Perry, chairman of the 48 Group Club, a UK business organization that promotes ties with China.

Speakers at the session acknowledged China has lift hundreds of millions of people out of poverty in the past 30 years. It had also achieved great economic improvements and now played an important global role.

Xi also received congratulations on his successful visit along with commitments to support initiatives such as One Belt, One Road and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

The meeting was also attended by Wang Huning, member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, and Yang Jiechi, director of Policy Research Office of the CPC Central Committee, and State Councillor.

To contact the reporter: pengyining@chinadaily.com.cn