UK member of Parliament Mark Hendrick also addressed the forum. He said that, in the face of rising global protectionism, it is crucial for the UK and China to cultivate a positive relationship and collaborate to address common challenges, rather than oppose each other.

"The UK's and Western economies are so intricately connected with China that full-scale 'decoupling' is neither feasible nor desirable," Hendrick said. "It's crucial that open trading economies like the UK engage with China and remain open to Chinese trade and investment."

He identified three key areas for cooperation: economy and trade, climate and green technology opportunities, and electric vehicles.

"When it comes to business and trade relations, there is no denying China's place as a partner," he added.

In the context of the upcoming general election announced by UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, Hendrick stressed that "a policy that engages directly with China, bilaterally and multilaterally, to preserve and create open, constructive and stable relations", is needed, regardless of which party wins.

hexiating@chinadaily.com.cn