British PM arrives in China for 3-day visit

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Source: CCTV.com | 01-18-2008 13:17

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has held talks with Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao at the Great Hall of the People. Brown arrived in Beijing early this morning for a 3-day official visit. Travelling with him is a high-profile delegation of business leaders. During the visit, Brown will discuss a range of issues with Chinese leaders.

Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao (L) hosts a welcoming ceremony for visiting British Prime Minister Gordon Brown in Beijing, China, Jan. 18, 2008. (Xinhua Photo)

The British Prime Minister's special plane landed at the Beijing Capital International airport early on Friday morning. This is Gordon Brown's first visit to China since he became the head of the British government last year. He's also the first European leader to visit China in 2008.

Shortly after his arrival, Brown was welcomed at the Great Hall of the People for talks with his Chinese counterpart Wen Jiabao. The two heads of government first reviewed the development of bilateral ties in recent years. They say the countries' cooperation in areas such as finance, technology and education is encouraging. They agreed great potential exists to expand bilateral ties in a comprehensive way. They also discussed the possibility of establishing a Sino-British "comprehensive strategic partnership."