Comments by Xu Xiujun, associate researcher with the Institute of World Economy and Politics at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences; comics drawn by Li Feng

    On October 22, the fourth day of President Xi Jinping's UK visit, he visited the satellite telecommunications company Inmarsat, and attended the opening ceremony of an annual meeting of Confucius Institutes in Britain. Afterward, Xi and Cameron met at Cameron's country retreat, Chequers, which was the starting point of Xi and Cameron private meetings.

    Xi and Cameron meeting writes a new chapter in Sino-British relations.

    Xi is the first Chinese leader to be invited to visit Chequers, marking the start of a new chapter in Sino-British diplomacy.

    Xi and Cameron's meeting is a significant part of Xi’s UK visit, and high-level hospitality has been accorded. Such hospitality highlights the host’s good intentions, and reflects the close relationships between the leaders and peoples of the two countries.

    More importantly, having a private meeting in Chequers allows more intimate conversation. Guests and hosts can communicate in more relaxed and sincere atmosphere. Deeper and broader talks could inject new momentum into Sino-British relations.

    The formal talks at 10 Downing Street and a private meeting in Chequers highlight that Sino-British relation differ from the past.

    Some media believe that against the backdrop of building a Sino-British global and comprehensive strategic partnership in the 21st century, Xi and Cameron meeting will become a landmark in Sino-British diplomacy and will be the best opening chapter for a golden era of Sino-British relations.