China, Britain cooperation outweighs competition: Hu Jintao

BEIJING - Chinese President Hu Jintao Wednesday said cooperation was stronger than competition between China and Britain as both the two economies were compatible.

Hu made the remarks while meeting visiting British Prime Minister David Cameron in the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing, Xinhua reported.

Hu noted that Cameron, the youngest British prime minister in 200 years, and his cabinet “are energetic”, and predicted that bilateral relations would see further growth under Cameron’s leadership.

Stating that China and Britain were important strategic partners, Hu urged the two countries “to make good use of the development opportunities”.

He told Cameron “new energy, new material, energy-efficiency and environmental protection know-how and high-end manufacture” could be new growth areas for bilateral cooperation.

Cameron said Britain highly values its relations with China and places great attention to the “high-level dialogue covering all areas” between the two countries.

He suggested the two sides seize opportunities in trade and investment and expand cooperation in such areas as energy, environment and pharmaceutical.

Cameron leaves China for Seoul later Wednesday.

The British prime minister led the biggest ever delegation to China, including key cabinet ministers such as Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne and Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change Chris Huhne. About 50 leading British business people accompanied him.