Premier Li Qiang on Sunday congratulated Keir Starmer on becoming UK prime minister, following the general election on Thursday which swept Starmer's Labour Party to power with a huge majority.

Li said China and Britain are both permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major economies, adding that greater cooperation between the two nations not only serves the interests of the two, but also helps the international community address global challenges.

Li said the Chinese government attaches great importance to its relationship with Britain, and stands ready to work with the new British government to consolidate mutual political trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, enhance people-to-people and cultural exchanges, support the economic and social development of both countries, and jointly promote world peace, stability, and prosperity. (With additional reporting from Xinhua)