China's top envoy to the United Kingdom has called for mutual respect, open cooperation, mutual learning and the shouldering of responsibilities between the two nations for the well-being of mankind.

Liu Xiaoming, China's ambassador to the UK, addressed a reception in central London on Monday marking the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The event at the iconic Guildhall was among China's major public diplomacy events of the year in the UK, attracting dignitaries and key figures in the burgeoning China-UK relationship.