China is keen to increase cooperation with Britain in trade, education, energy and sustainable development, said State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan in a meeting with visiting British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott in Beijing on Tuesday.

 

The two sides exchanged views on China-Britain relations, and on international and regional issues of common concern.

 

Tang said President Hu Jintao's successful visit to Britain and British Prime Minister Tony Blair's visit to China last year further promoted the development of bilateral relations.

 

Tang stressed that China insists on following a path of peaceful development and will mainly depend on itself to solve difficulties and challenges.

 

China's development needs a peaceful international environment, Tang said, noting that China will not stop the process of expanding cooperation with the outside world.

 

China will always endeavor to safeguard world peace and promote common development, said Tang.

 

Prescott spoke highly of China's efforts in building a harmonious society, promoting scientific, technological and sustainable development, and protecting intellectual property rights.

 

(Xinhua News Agency February 22, 2006)