BEIJING, Jan. 18 (Xinhua) -- China hopes Britain and the European Union (EU) can reach a win-win agreement through negotiation, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Hua Chunying's remarks came after British Prime Minister Teresa May said in her speech on Tuesday that Brexit would produce a new and equal partnership between her country and the EU.

This is May's first important speech on her government's guiding principles on Brexit since the Britons voted to leave the EU in a referendum in June last year.

Noting China always firmly supports the process of European integration, Hua said China believes a prosperous, stable and open Europe is in the interest of all parties concerned.

China is ready to continue building China-Europe partnerships for peace, growth, reform and civilization, Hua added.

Saying China attaches importance to Britain's status and role, Hua called on both sides to deepen cooperation based on mutual respect and benefits.