Passage 1

Britain and China start from a strong foundation, with our bilateral relations in excellent shape. In 1950 Britain was the first western country to recognize the People’s Republic of China. This year we will celebrate the 11th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Since 1997 our exchanges have multiplied dramatically--bilaterally but also multilaterally where we share common interests and responsibilities as Permanent Members of the UN Security Council. //
    As China embarks on its new phase of development, the UK is ready for partnership. British and Chinese universities can form new partnerships to raise skills and management capacity. Our research institutions and scientists can collaborate to develop the technologies to make innovative products, for example dealing with the environmental challenges which must be solved to guarantee future quality of life.  In all this, I see significant mutual benefits--a UK/China Partnership in education exchange and scientific development.