President Xi Jinping, accompanied by his wife Peng Liyuan, received a grand and warm welcome by the British royal family on Tuesday. The day's activities included a morning greeting, a ceremonial welcome, a private lunch and talks with the royal family.
The festivities concluded with an elegant state banquet at the Buckingham Palace, hosted by Queen Elizabeth II.
"Your visit to the United Kingdom marks a milestone in this uNPRecedented year of cooperation and friendship between the United Kingdom and China as we celebrate the ties between our two countries and prepare to take them to ambitious new heights."
For his part, President Xi Jinping has expressed China's wishes for furthering Sino-UK ties.
"As important representatives of developed and developing countries, we are both at the crucial stage of development. We still have a long way to go in reforming, developing and improving people's lives. This year is the start of the second 10-year China-UK comprehensive strategic partnership. We should grasp the opportunity, join our hands and create a better future for our relationship."
The welcome for President Xi and Peng Liyuan also included a 103 royal gun salute and a review of the royal horse guard. Xi's visit is at the invitation of the Queen, and is the first such visit by a Chinese president to the UK since 2005.
