AIIB ushers in "golden decade" for China, Britain

Economic and trade ties have also expanded, with annual trade surging from about 20 billion U.S. dollars in 2004 to more than 80 billion dollars in 2014.

Now, as the comprehensive strategic partnership enters its second decade, both sides are looking toward a bright future.

Britain hopes that a stronger relationship with China will ensure its prosperity, said Feng.

Since the European debt crisis, Britain has begun seeking cooperation opportunities outside Europe that are more stable and reliable. China is an ideal choice as sound economic fundamentals remain despite a slowing trend in recent years.

China's economy expanded by an average annual rate of 8 percent from 2011 to 2014, before falling to 7 percent in the first half of this year. Britain, on the other hand, posted annual growth of less than 3 percent in the same period.

"Undoubtedly, Britain wants to grow alongside a healthily growing economy," said Cui.

During Xi's visit, he is scheduled to deliver an important speech in London, where he will expound China's domestic and foreign policies and chart the future course for economic and trade cooperation.

The two sides are looking to explore new areas that will bring mutual benefits, according to Feng.

Britain is China's second largest trading partner within the European Union, while China is Britain's fourth-largest trading partner.

Last year, transportation equipment and precious metal accounted for more than 50 percent of British exports to China, while labor-intensive products, such as textiles toys and furniture, were featured heavily in Britain's import catalog from China.

Britain has opened its gates wide for Chinese investment, which witnessed an annual growth rate of 85 percent in the previous five years. It has become China's top investment destination within Europe.

In the plan to transform the north of England into an economic powerhouse, Britain needs Chinese investment to revitalize its northern industrial cities such as Manchester and Liverpool.

China's foreign ministry has said the visit will enhance economic and trade cooperation, with the signing of inter-government agreements and cooperation projects between companies.

Looking ahead, Xi's visit is going to lay a solid foundation for the golden decade ahead, Feng said.

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