Beijing, March 20th—The 12th UK-China Leadership Forum was held here today. Both sides had candid, in-depth and constructive exchanges around the theme of "strengthening communication and dialogue between political parties and promoting the establishment of stable and mutually beneficial China-UK relations". Liu Jianchao, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), attended the forum and delivered a keynote speech. More than 30 representatives were present, including those from China's ministries and commissions, local governments, David Lidington, former Minister for the Cabinet Office and Honorary President of Great Britain-China Centre (GBCC), and Members of Parliament of the Conservative Party and the Labour Party.  

Both sides believed that the world today is undergoing tremendous changes and facing increasing global issues and challenges. China and the UK are both permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major economies in the world. Developing healthy and stable bilateral relations is in the common interest of both countries and is beneficial to the entire world. Both sides should strengthen communication and dialogue, establish correct understandings, and enhance mutual trust; strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, energy, environmental protection, health, and education, promote people-to-people and cultural and sub-national exchanges, and consolidate the social foundation of bilateral relations. Both sides need to treat and manage differences under the principle of mutual respect and equal treatment, strengthen communication and coordination on international and regional issues, and jointly safeguard world peace and stability. The UK-China Leadership Forum is a useful channel to enhance mutual understanding and trust, and should be continued to make more positive contributions to the development of bilateral relations.  

Sun Haiyan, Vice-minister of the IDCPC, presided over the Forum. Wang Gang, Deputy Director of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee, was present.