British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for deepening relations with China in what he called "challenging times for the world", the agencies quoted by BTA reported.
The British leader told Chinese President Xi Jinping that their countries must work together on global stability, climate change and other issues.
"I have long made it clear that Britain and China need a long-term, consistent and comprehensive strategic partnership," Starmer told his host.
Starmer met with Xi Jinping in Beijing and told the president that "China is an important player on the world stage and it is vital that we build more sophisticated relations", notes the DPA.
"I am here today with the British people in mind. 18 months ago, when we were elected government, I promised that I would make Britain open to the world again. Because, as we all know, events abroad affect everything that happens in our countries - from prices in supermarkets to how safe we feel", Starmer stressed, highlighting the economic benefits of improving relations with China.
Starmer is on a visit to China until January 31, accompanied by a large business delegation. In addition to the Chinese capital, he will also visit Shanghai. This is the first visit by a British prime minister to Beijing since 2018 - Theresa May's last trip to China.
At the meeting, Xi also called for strengthening cooperation between the two countries. "As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major global economic players, China and Britain should strengthen dialogue and cooperation," said Xi, who received his guest at the Great Hall of the People on Beijing's Tiananmen Square.
"China-Britain relations have suffered difficulties in recent years, which was not in the interests of either side," Xi said, according to the Associated Press.
Xi also appeared to note the criticism Starmer has faced for reaching out to China despite concerns about national security and human rights. Britain recently approved controversial plans for a huge Chinese embassy in London, removing a thorn in the side but also ignoring concerns that the "mega-embassy" will make it easier for China to carry out espionage and intimidate dissidents.
"Good things often come with hardships," Xi said. "As long as it is the right thing to do in accordance with the core interests of the country and its people, leaders will not be afraid of hardships and will boldly forge ahead."