Chinese president wraps up British visit in Manchester

Chinese President Xi Jinping addresses dignitaries during a visit to the airport city in Manchester, Britain, Oct. 23, 2015. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo) 

MANCHESTER, Britain, Oct. 23 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping left Britain Friday, concluding his five-day state visit to the European nation, the first in a decade by a Chinese head of state.

Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan stayed at Buckingham Palace in London as the guests of Queen Elizabeth II, who hosted a grand ceremonial welcome for the couple, gave a private lunch and a formal state banquet with the attendance of senior members of the royal family.

During the visit, the two countries lifted their ties to "a global comprehensive strategic partnership for the 21st century" and agreed that "this visit opens a golden era in China-UK relations featuring enduring, inclusive and win-win cooperation."

The trip also took Xi to the old industrial city of Manchester in northern England.

The president visited the National Graphene Institute at the University of Manchester, before he joined British Prime Minister David Cameron at Manchester City's football academy.

Hailing Britain as a football power and the headstream of modern football, Xi said China should learn from Britain in many aspects.

"Sports exchange is an important part of people-to-people exchanges. I hope the two sides could strengthen their cooperation in sports, including football, to improve people's health and China-Britain friendship," said the president.

While addressing a welcome lunch held by the government of Manchester, Xi said he hoped the city where the Industrial Revolution began could take a leading role in promoting China-Britain cooperation.

For his part, Cameron reaffirmed Britain's resolve to become China's best friend in the West.

Xi also visited Manchester's airport city and announced plans for direct flights between Manchester and Beijing.