British Prime Minister Gordon Brown met in London on Monday with visiting Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan, with both sides reiterating their commitment to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

Against a background of continued globalization, the common interests shared by China and Britain continue to expand, and the two countries have faced many global issues and challenges which need to be addressed jointly, said Tang.

He added that strengthening Sino-British cooperation serves the fundamental and long-term interests of both sides, and is conducive to world peace and prosperity.

Brown's successful visit to China last month showed that the bilateral relations had entered a new stage of the development, said Tang.

The Chinese state councilor said both countries have a good opportunity to develop bilateral relations, as they have a strong willingness for cooperation.

China is willing to work with Britain to build on the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries during Brown's recent visit, and push forward the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership between two countries.

During the meeting, Brown said the development of bilateral relations is enjoying strong momentum, and Britain committed itself to deepening the comprehensive strategic partnership with China and is willing to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

Britain is confident of the realization of the new bilateral trade goal set by the two countries last month, and hopes to further strengthen trade ties through the financial and economic dialogue at vice prime minister level, said Brown, adding that Britain welcomed the investment from Chinese industry, such as the China Investment Corporation.

Brown said the stable and sustainable development of China's economy makes an important contribution to the world, and Britain is expected to strengthen cooperation with China on reform of the international financial system to maintain stability in the world economy.

The British prime minister also reiterated his government's stance on adhering to the one-China policy.

On Monday, Tang also held talks with British Justice Secretary Jack Straw, and met former British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott Sunday.

Tang started his three-country tour Saturday. After Britain he will travel to Japan and South Korea, where he will attend the inauguration ceremony of South Korean President Lee Myung-bak on Feb. 25.

(Xinhua News Agency February 19, 2008)