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President Xi Jinping says he expects the British royal family to continue to play an active role in promoting mutual understanding and friendship between the Chinese and British people.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (R) meets with visiting British Prince Andrew, the Duke of York, in Beijing, capital of China, April 5, 2016. (Xinhua/Zhang Duo)

During a meeting in Beijing, Xi told Britain's Prince Andrew that he was looking forward to a more solid foundation of public support for China-UK relations. He said this year marks the first year of the "golden era" of China-UK relations and China will work with Britain in enhancing exchanges at all levels and enriching cooperation.

Xi also said the two sides should increase high-level communications and deepen pragmatic cooperation.

Prince Andrew said he was willing to work with the Chinese side to increase people-to-people contact and make the "golden era" truly shine.