British Queen makes references to China in keynote speech

Wu said the state visit by the Chinese president will create even stronger and more stable links with the UK. "It is also setting the right tone at the right moment for both countries."

Wu noted that recently he was discussing with a group from China about their concerns should Britain leave the European Union (EU).

"My view as an economist is it won't affect trade relationships with China at all. Britain would remain as a trading nation with Europe even if the country leaves the EU," he said.

Also describing the Queen's speech as great news for British-Chinese relations was accountant Julia Jian who lives in Manchester. Formerly employed at the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, she used to work with companies involved in business relationships between the two countries.

"Business links between the two countries are getting better all of the time, and it has become a win-win situation for both sides," Jian said, noting that in the time she has been in Britain the links have improved.

The Queen's speech referred to the proposed national referendum on Britain's membership of the EU, and also set out the proposed legislative program by the Conservative government for the coming session of the Parliament.

Although the speech focused mostly on domestic issues, commentators on international issues will view the queen's references to the rapidly developing economies of China and India as a signal that Britain is determined to remain as a global trading nation, whether the country stays in or leaves the EU.