On January 28, 2008, Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Liu Jieyi met with a UK delegation for human rights dialogue headed by Sebastian Wood, Asia-Pacific Director of the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Liu said the recent successful visit by Prime Minister Gordon Brown to China pushed for the development of bilateral ties in a comprehensive manner. Both sides should take it as a new starting point to further enhance political trust, deepen pragmatic cooperation in priority areas and push forward China-UK comprehensive strategic partnership.

Liu said the 17th CPC National Congress reaffirmed respect and guarantee of human rights. Currently the Chinese governments at all levels are actively implementing the spirit of the 17th CPC National Congress, as well as the scientific concept of development which puts people first, in efforts to build a harmonious society and to promote and protect human rights of Chinese people, he added.

The assistant foreign minister said China and the UK have enhanced mutual understanding and exchanges through human rights dialogue. Practice proves that dialogue and cooperation based on equality and mutual respect is the best way to address human rights issues.

Wood noted that the UK attaches great importance to ties with China and is satisfied with the important consensus reached during Prime Minister Gordon Brown's China visit. He said the UK paid close attention to the 17th CPC National Congress and noticed, with admiration, China's resolve to promote democracy and rule of law. The UK looks forward to further deepening exchanges and cooperation with China in the field of human rights through human rights dialogue, he added.

Both sides also exchanged views on issues of mutual concern.