But it is the 'efficient' part of governance which makes the real difference, and the 'dignified' part can only provide a suitable atmospheric framework for its operation. Britain is world-famous for her 'dignified' traditions; but some observers have doubted whether the country can still operate 'efficiently' and effectively in the twenty-first century.

Fortunately, at the same time as an upturn in the friendly atmosphere of UK-China relations, this is an extremely opportune moment for the practical and mutually beneficial synergy of Chinese and British interests. Among China's Western economic partners, it is known that Britain stands robustly for the principles of free trade and openness to foreign investment. Britain also operates a vitally important base for the workings of international finance, and at a time when China is undergoing the complex and risky process of integrating the RMB into the global financial system, London is well-placed to serve China's interests. It is hoped that the London market may soon issue Chinese government debt denominated in RMB - the first foreign centre to do so.

At the same time China is supremely well placed to help with two of the UK's most urgent current needs; the expansion of the domestic energy supply, and the revitalisation of rail transport. These are two areas in which China has staked a claim to world leadership. In the margins of the President's visit, Britain hopes to move towards putting finance in place to support Chinese cooperation in the new Hinkley Point power station development, and will also seek Chinese input into the planned high speed rail network linking London to northern and central England, which will help the development of less economically successful regions in a way that China well understands.

This will form the background against which the pomp and circumstance of the President's visit will be displayed. It is essential that both the 'dignified' and the 'efficient' aspects of this occasion work flawlessly. This could indeed initiate a "golden period" in UK-China relations.

The writer is a columnist with China.org.cn. For more information please visit: http://www.ccgp-fushun.com/opinion/timcollard.htm

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