The Chinese president and the British prime minister held a phone call following Burnham’s appointment. The two sides discussed the further development of bilateral relations, trade, investment, international cooperation and other issues.
Xi Jinping called on China and the United Kingdom to strengthen mutual trust, overcome differences and expand mutually beneficial cooperation. He made the remarks during a phone call with the British prime minister on Tuesday.
According to China Daily, this was the leaders’ first conversation since Burnham took office in July. Xi noted that despite differences in political systems and national conditions, the two countries share a broad range of common interests.
China plans to continue opening up sectors such as education, healthcare and finance, which Beijing views as promising areas for bilateral cooperation. Xi also called for stronger engagement in science, technology, culture and sports.
Burnham said the United Kingdom was prepared to maintain a consistent policy toward China and develop a long-term strategic partnership. He also reaffirmed that London’s position on the Taiwan issue remains unchanged.
Following the phone call, the two sides agreed to continue government-level dialogue on key areas and maintain communication amid a complex international environment.
Read also: Iran threatens to expand exclusion zone around Strait of Hormuz
