'Golden era' of UK ties continues

British Prime Minister Theresa May brushed aside uncertainties about relations between Beijing and London, saying the "golden era of relations will continue".

She made the remarks on Sept 5 on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Hangzhou. She then had a one-on-one meeting with President Xi Jinping.

By using the term "golden era of relations", May echoed her predecessor, David Cameron, who stepped down this year after Britain's referendum on European Union membership.

"It will be an opportunity to discuss how we can take forward the golden era of relations between our two countries and build a strong economic and global partnership that works in the interests of both," she said of the meeting with Xi.

"This is my first visit to China, and I'd like to thank the Chinese government and the people of Hangzhou for welcoming us here and holding a magnificent summit."

On the proposed Hinkley Point nuclear project in southwest England, she added: "I've been clear that the decision will be taken this month. Our relationship with China is about more than Hinkley, if you look at the investment from China in various other parts of the United Kingdom."

After taking office, May delayed her final decision on the power station, which is to be partly funded by China.

When asked about the delay, Lord Mayor of London Jeffrey Mountevans told Xinhua News Agency that the city wants to see the issue resolved rapidly because it is keen on partnerships with Chinese businesses.

In their meeting, Xi and May vowed to boost "mutual understanding and trust". They agreed to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, finance and legal enforcement.

lixiaokun@chinadaily.com.cn

(China Daily European Weekly 09/09/2016 page15)