London: China-UK relations will "either forge ahead or drift downstream" in an atmosphere of global turbulence, China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday during a phone call with his UK counterpart, Yvette Cooper. "Both sides should enhance strategic communication and promote the sustainable development of bilateral relations along a healthy, mutually beneficial, and stable track," Wang was quoted by the state-run news agency Xinhua as saying.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang highlighted China and the UK's "important international responsibilities for world peace, stability, and development," adding that Beijing upholds the UN Charter and the UN's position in the international system. Wang emphasized China's respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, its advocacy for peaceful dispute resolution, support for global free trade and WTO rules, and its commitment to ensuring the stability of global industrial and supply chains.

Even though differences are "normal," Wang stressed that the two sides should "strive to enhance mutual understanding and provide a solid guarantee for the stability of bilateral relations." He noted the importance of maintaining a clear head regarding "occasional noises and disturbances," advocating for active and prudent handling to maintain the main tone of bilateral development.

Cooper, for her part, expressed London's willingness to strengthen high-level exchanges with China and expand cooperation in areas such as security, development, and the environment. She urged London and Beijing to "maintain regular strategic communication, jointly address global challenges such as climate change, uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, safeguard global free trade, and preserve the multilateral system."

Wang and Cooper agreed to cooperate on their "respective reasonable concerns on an equal footing," signaling a mutual commitment to addressing shared challenges and enhancing bilateral relations.