by Xinhua writer Gui Tao
LONDON, Dec. 20 (Xinhua) -- While an array of Brexit uncertainties loom in Britain's political landscape, one thing remaining as a certainty is confidence in and mutual commitment to a "golden era" of post-Brexit relations with China.
The 8th China-UK Strategic Dialogue on Tuesday is expected to be an extension of the commitment by Beijing and London at the high government level to ensure their relations are genuinely golden.
The commitment to solidify ties has emerged more than a year after Chinese President Xi Jinping's state visit to Britain, which unleashed the start of the "golden era." It also came months after leaders of the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to their golden ties during the September G20 Summit in China.
For two countries located at the opposite ends of the vast Eurasian continent, closer cooperation and better coordination can shorten their geological distance.
Since the Brexit referendum in June and the British government's reshuffle this year, there has been media speculation about uncertainties in China-Britain relations, with some predicting that the "golden era" is losing its shine.
Contrary to such pessimism, China and the Britain have maintained effective communication and policy coordination. They have enhanced ties with high-level visits, trade and mutual investment, cooperation in financial services and people-to-people exchanges.
One golden fruit is the Hinkley Point C nuclear project, the single biggest investment that China has ever made in Britain. The British government gave the green light to the project some months ago.
Although there is no shortage of challenges during a time of Brexit uncertainty, there is no reason to alter the commitment by both countries to strengthen bilateral relations. The vital interests that bind the two countries together and the fundamentals of the relationship should also remain unchanged.
The strategic and global nature of China-Britain relations remains unscathed. China and Britain are both major global economies and permanent members of the UN Security Council.
The common desire for continued cooperation and win-win results remain untouched. China is Britain's second largest trading partner outside the European Union while Britain is home to more Chinese investment than any European country.
Britain, with its strong high-tech and financial sectors, has an edge in brand promotion and creative industries. China has a large workforce and market, and the size of its economy comes with a strong financing capability.
Next year will mark the 45th anniversary of bilateral relations. Now is the time for this golden era of relations to see both countries work together to improve the global multilateral trading regime and seek cooperation in reforming the systems of international finance.
