Global meaning of China-UK cooperation(2)

Britain established diplomatic relations in 1972, and bilateral relations have been normalized; in 1984 the Sino-British Joint Declaration on the Question of Hong Kong was signed, clearing the main obstacle to development of bilateral relations; the decision was taken to build a new partnership in 2004 - a comprehensive strategic partnership for the 21st century - and new goals were set for relations between the two countries.

Humanities exchange mechanisms have become an important pillar of bilateral relations. Currently there are more than 100,000 Chinese students studying in Britain and there is a growing interest in studying Chinese. Recent measures have been passed to simplify Britain's visa process for Chinese applicants, which will undoubtedly boost cultural exchanges between the two countries.

Only by seizing opportunities and meeting challenges can the East and West, the developing and the developed countries, work together to build a better world.

As Premier Li Keqiang said during his visit to Britain, China and Britain are both countries with influence. Bilateral relations have gone through an extraordinary process and exchanges and cooperation in various fields are fruitful. In a multi-polar world of increasing economic globalization, Sino-UK relations will have a broader arena.

China expects to work together with Britain to plan new routes, lay new track, add new energy and push bilateral relations forward, which will also contribute to world peace and development.