Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing met with British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw separately on Friday, saying that China will continue to work with Britain to boost bilateral relations.

During the meetings, Li said the Sino-UK relationship has recently made fresh progress as the two governments are trying hard to develop a comprehensive strategic partnership with the frequent exchanges of high-level visits and political consultations.

Bilateral cooperation in major fields set in the Sino-British joint declaration is also going well, said Li.

Prescott said a sound development has been scored in the Sino- UK relationship since China resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong in 1997.

Noting that China has made remarkable social and economic achievements, he expressed the hope that both sides will make more efforts to promote bilateral cooperation in various areas.

In his talks with Li, Straw said the British government attaches great importance to its relationship with China, hoping that the two countries will increase cooperation in bilateral relations, as well as in regional and international affairs.

The British foreign secretary also reiterated that Britain adheres to the One-China policy.

(eastday.com December 11, 2004)