MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER TO THE CHINA DAILY SUPPLEMENT
I am delighted to have this opportunity to send greetings
to the readers of the China Daily as I begin my visit to China.
My visit is the first by a British Prime Minister in office to
China, It is a symbol of the increasing links between our two
countries. Co-operation in academic, scientific and educational
work is increasing. The number of student exchanges between
Britain and China has never been greater. We have a useful
commercial relationship on which we must now build. We have much
to offer each other from our long artistic and literary traditions.
I know I shall see many changes in China since my visit in
1977. I know, for example, that there has been a very large
increase in the number of Chinese both young and old studying English.
This can only increase the understanding between our countries and
I am glad that we in Britain can help with China's efforts in this
field. The assistance which the Thomson Organisation gives the
China Daily is an example of this new close working relationship.
Britain and China hold similar positions on many international
issues. We both see the dangers to the world from aggression and
expansionism. By working together we can make an important contribu-
tion to world peace. We have made great progress but this is only a
beginning. I hope that my visit will help to bring our two countries
closer together.