英国专家谈中英“黄金时代”

Shortly after British Prime Minister David Cameron's re-election in May, he was quoted as saying he believes the relationship between the UK and China has entered a "golden era" of development.

Since then, both sides have been throwing around "gold" to describe both economic and diplomatic ties.

Mike Bastin, director of China Business Center based in London, says the term, though perhaps somewhat derivative, does seem to fit.

"I think the golden era is the right term. The British government realized the growth in trade with China and other fast-growing nations is so important for the Eurozone economy. And I also think the term comes from the Chinese side where the internationalization of Chinese industries across all sectors is now of paramount importance for the sustainable growth of the Chinese economy. And UK seems as a real opportunity (for China) to enter and expand across Europe. "

At the same time, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair is also among those trotting out the 'gold standard' when describing his expectations for Xi Jinping's forthcoming trip.

"I think it's possible to get to an even higher and increased level of cooperation, not just economically but politically. How China develops its role in the world -- it's got immense implications for everyone today. There's no big global problem that can be solved without China. We are enthusiastic about developing the ties with China even further and making sure that this next decade is a golden decade."

The "golden decade" is being used to describe most areas of cooperation between China and the UK.

However, one area which has seen a major step forward over the past few years is in infrastructure investment.

On top of Chinese companies purchasing a number of major properties in London, its being said Chinese investors are being directed toward other areas, including the development of the new Hinkley nuclear power station project in the UK, as well as Britain's high-speed railway system.

But other UK observers are suggesting Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit may go beyond economics.
 
Doctor Robin Niblett, director of London-based international think-tank Chatham House, suggests "climate change" is a non-traditional field the two countries can begin exploring.

"The British government is part of the EU, which is the other part of the triangle in a way on climate change. This could also be a big feature. There's some quite important long-term studies taking place between Chinese and British institutes on resources, on how to do greater energy efficiency, green technology, how to think about food and water, not just oil and energy. "

Chinese President Xi Jinping, along with his wife Peng Liyuan, is scheduled to fly out to London on Monday.

The couple will be guests of the Queen at Buckingham Palace during their 5-day visit.

It will be the first state visit to the UK by a Chinese leader in a decade.

For CRI, I am Wang Mengzhen.