In advance of his trip to the UK, President Xi Jinping conducted a written interview with Reuters news agency. Xi answered questions, referring to ties with the UK and the EU, as well as bilateral financial cooperation, and climate change.

The Chinese President says he looks forward to having discussions with British leaders and engaging the British public on China-UK bilateral ties. He hopes the two countries could jointly usher in a "golden time" for the comprehensive strategic partnership.

President Xi said this year marks the beginning of the second decade of the China-UK comprehensive strategic partnership and the 40th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic ties. Since the UK is an important member of the EU, China-UK relationship and China-EU relationship reinforce each other. He believes new progress in the China-UK relationship will inject new momentum into the growth of the China-EU relationship across the board, and make new contributions to the building of China-EU partnership as a whole.

When it comes to financial cooperation, Xi Jinping notes the rapid growth the two countries have enjoyed over the past decade. And he says when the time is right, China will consider strengthening the connectivity in the financial markets of the two countries. London can leverage its unique strengths in the financial field to get actively involved in the modernization and globalization of China's financial market.

As for the Hinkley Point nuclear power plant in southwest England, President Xi stresses that the project involves China, the UK and France. He hopes all participating companies will fully leverage their respective strengths to ensure the successful launch of this project and deliver benefits to the British people. He also hopes such business operations will not be politicized and that non-economic or non-market-based barriers will not be enacted.

On climate change issue, President Xi said developed and developing countries have different historical responsibilities for climate change, and different development needs and capabilities. Developed countries should do more and lead the way in addressing climate change. The Paris Conference coming up at the end of this year is a significant milestone in the multilateral process on climate change. Parties should demonstrate sincerity as much as they can, build up consensus and work toward the same goal. China is ready to play a constructive role and work for the timely conclusion of a comprehensive, balanced and strong agreement at the Paris conference.

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