On April 15, 2008, Premier Wen Jiabao met in Ziguangge, Zhongnanhai with British Chancellor of the Exchequer Alistair Darling, also British Prime Minister Gordon Brown's special representative, who is here in China for the First China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue.

Wen pointed out that the international community was facing increasing opportunities and challenges as economic globalization developed. Both China and Britain were influential countries and should strengthen their dialogue based on mutual respect, equality and reciprocity so as to deepen mutual trust, expand common ground, overcome disputes and contribute to world peace, stability and prosperity, he added. Wen hoped China and Britain would take the economic and financial dialogue as a platform to promote mutual understanding and cooperation.

"We oppose protectionism in investment and trade," Wen said. He called for establishing a fair, open, reasonable multilateral trade system of non-discrimination in the world. Wen vowed to work with Britain and other countries to push the Doha round toward a comprehensive and balanced result.

Darling said Britain attached importance to relations with China from a long-term perspective and remained committed to safeguarding the foundation of bilateral ties. He said Britain would like to promote dialogue with China in handling outstanding issues on economy, finance, and the environment for common development. He said protectionism on trade was wrong, adding that Britain supported recognizing China's full market economy status and opposed measures boycotting Chinese commodities. The UK will continue active efforts within the European Union (EU) in this regard, he added.

Vice Premier Wang Qishan, Minister of Finance Xie Xuren and other officials attended the meeting.