Anticipations high for upcoming Theresa May visit

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British Prime Minister Theresa May begins her first official visit to China on Wednesday, a vital visit which has been promised to yield “golden fruits” for both sides.

Liu Xiaoming, Chinese Ambassador to Britain, says that the two countries have a broad range of areas for cooperation, and it’s a great opportunity for Britain to forge new relations with China as a stash of new deals could be quite valuable in a post-Brexit era.

“As an island country, the British economy is heavily dependent on free trade. While some western countries see China's rise as a threat, Britain sees it as a great opportunity,” Liu indicated.

Britain was the first western nation to apply for membership with the China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), and was the the second among members to contribute funds. In addition, Britain is planning on investing 25 billion US dollars in China's Belt and Road projects.

Multinationals keenly anticipate the good that might come out of this visit, which is expected to “intensify the golden era” in UK-China relations.

Bas Burger, CEO of BT Global Services, a division of UK telecommunications company BT Group, tells CGTN that May’s upcoming trip will emphasize China’s role as a partner with Britain and British companies.

VCG Photo.‍

"I think it’s going to be a great visit. I know that many British companies are excited to become participants in developments alongside the Belt and Road. And for us, China is a very important market," said Burger.

The British Prime Minister will be accompanied by leaders from over 40 companies, universities and trade associations and the largest ever British trade delegation to China is finalizing a number of corporate deals.

The make-up of May's delegation is believed to reflect Britain’s priorities, in line with the industrial strategy announced last year with an aim to boost productivity. The auto sector will be represented by Tevva Motors, Aston Martin and Jaguar Land Rover; while institutions including the University of Manchester are expected to arrive to discuss matters on education.