The Chinese Ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaoming, hosted a farewell reception online due to the novel coronavirus pandemic prior to leaving office after 11 years in the post. "These 11 years have seen tremendous changes in both China and the world," Liu said.

Liu was appointed China's 11th ambassador to the UK in December 2009 and is the longest-serving ambassador in the history of China-UK relations.

In his speech, Liu spoke of the growing common interests between both countries on issues including climate change, multilateralism and free trade, and highlighted the importance of continued cooperation and mutual respect.

"Thanks to the concerted efforts of people from all walks of life in both countries, China and the UK have deepened mutual understanding and cemented public support for bilateral relations," he said.