Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang and his wife, Counsellor Hua Mei, hosted a reception on Friday at the Chinese Embassy to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, which falls on January 29 this year.

In his speech, Ambassador Zheng extended warm New Year's greetings to Chinese compatriots in the UK, staff of Chinese-funded institutions, Chinese students, and friends who support the development of China-UK relations.

He highlighted the progress in China-UK relations achieved through joint efforts, particularly noting the successful meeting between President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Brazil. 

The meeting, Zheng said, has provided clear direction for the development of bilateral relations.

The ambassador expressed hope that the UK and China would work together to implement the important consensus reached by their leaders. 

He emphasized the principles of mutual respect, non-interference in each other's internal affairs, equality, and mutual benefit, advocating for a long-term, stable, and mutually beneficial partnership between the two nations.

Zheng also congratulated overseas Chinese, Chinese-funded institutions, and international students in the UK on their achievements over the past year. 

He encouraged them to carry forward the fine traditions of Chinese civilization and continue making contributions to various causes.

The event was attended by over 400 guests from various sectors. President of London Chinatown Chinese Association Deng Zhuting, Chairman of China Chamber of Commerce in the UK Fang Wenjian and Dr. Zhong Shaohong, a Chinese international student, spoke as representatives of the guests at the meeting.