Chinese Vice-President Hu Jintao said here Sunday that his official visit to Britain is aimed to enhance mutual understanding, expand consensus and promote bilateral ties.
He made the remarks in a written speech upon his arrival at the Heathrow airport in London.
"As permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, China and the UK shoulder a heavy responsibility for the maintenance of peace and the promotion of development in the world," Hu said.
"So it is absolutely necessary to foster closer links and strengthen dialogue and cooperation," he added.
Commenting on the Sino-British relations, Hu said bilateral ties at all levels are growing, mutual understanding and trust are deepening, consultations and coordination on international affairs have expanded between the two countries.
During his visit, Hu is expected to meet with Queen Elizabeth II, Prime Minister Tony Blair and other Britain's leaders.
"I would like to make friends with people from all circles and together discuss and boost the mutually beneficial cooperation between China and the UK," Hu said.
Hu arrived here after winding up his two-day working visit to Russia. Britain is the second leg of his five-nation tour, which will also take him to France, Spain and Germany.
( Xinhua News Agency 10/28/2001)
