Consul General Dr. Sun Dali made the following opening remarks----

Since the founding of the People's Republic of China 67 years ago, especially since China's reform and opening-up, its comprehensive national strength and people's living standard have realized historic leaps. China, adhering to the path of peaceful development and upholding justice in international affairs, is an important force in safeguarding world peace, stability and development. This year, China's economy continues to grow with new driving forces gathering momentum. Last October, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the UK, opening the 'golden era' of bilateral relations, during which many firsts have been achieved between China and the UK, mutual trade remains stable and two-way investment is on a sharp increase. Subnational exchanges and cooperation between the two countries have witnessed a gratifying spurt of growth. Chinese investment has kept flowing into the north of England. People-to-people exchange and joint cultural activities have set off one climax after another. Earlier this month, Presideng Xi Jinping met with British new Prime Minister Theresa May during the G20 summit. They both reiterated the will to continuously enhance political mutual trust and cooperation so as to lift China-UK global strategic partnership in the 21^st century to a higher level. We very much look forward to seeing a constant growth of the connectivity between China and our Consular area.