Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian

Asked to comment on the appointment of Andy Burnham as new British Prime Minister by King Charles III on July 20, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Monday that China's policy and position on developing China-UK relations is consistent.

Both China and the UK are permanent members of the UN Security Council and major economies in the world. To develop a long-term and consistent comprehensive strategic partnership serves the fundamental interests of two countries and peoples, and is also conducive to world peace, stability and prosperity, Lin said. 

China looks to enhance exchanges and cooperation with the UK based on mutual respect and properly handling differences, and together ensure that bilateral ties will move in the right direction, the spokesperson added.

Burnham announced his cabinet, naming John Healey as Chancellor of the Exchequer, Ed Miliband as foreign secretary and Wes Streeting as defense secretary, according to the BBC.  

In his first speech as prime minister, Burnham said his government would introduce a 10-year plan for Britain, with initial measures focusing on easing cost-of-living pressures, boosting employment and expanding housing construction.  

Chinese Premier Li Qiang congratulated Burnham on Monday on assuming office as British prime minister, the Xinhua News Agency reported. 


Global Times