National Day reception in UK highlights 'golden era' ties

To further dovetail both China's and the UK's development strategies, the ambassador called for "mutual respect and mutual trust", "mutual benefits" and "following the trends of the time". He also called for the UK to seize opportunities such as the first China International Import Expo in Shanghai in early November.

Brandon Lewis, chairman of the Conservative Party and minister without portfolio, said at the reception that trade and services in 2017 between China and the UK have seen double-digit growth compared to 2016. To keep the strong momentum of trade and investment cooperation, he emphasized the key advantage of the UK's economy to foreign investors, such as openness and its status as an international financial center.

In a sideline event, Liu, Lewis and other guests at the reception also participated in an exhibition displaying the achievements made by members of the China Chamber of Commerce in the UK since President Xi Jinping's successful state visit to the UK in 2015.

By bolstering two-way investment and building stronger economic bonds, CCCUK member companies wasted no time in bringing the two countries' "golden era" relationship into fruition.

The exhibition showcased concrete steps taken by CCCUK members in the areas of finance, technology and manufacturing, energy and infrastructure, as well as social responsibility.