Britain knows that in order to propel its economy, China and other Asian economies are indispensable partners. While stronger China-UK ties signal a changing international landscape and the diminishing predominance of the United States, they also open a path for Washington and other Western capitals to boost ties with China.

The embrace between London and Washington is political, while the London-Beijing connection is economic, which means both can operate at once. That China and the UK, with divergent political systems and at different stages of development, could model their relations on the basis of mutual respect and win-win cooperation should be a source of inspiration for Sino-US relations.

All eyes are now focused on China’s current state visit: on October 20, Xi arrived in London at the invitation of Queen Elizabeth. His visit included the usual symbolic perks—a stay at Buckingham Palace, a ride in a royal carriage, and an address to the British Parliament—but his stay has also featured important trade and economic announcements, and has emphasized a new and unexpected honeymoon between two former enemies.

Accelerated interaction between China and the UK, one a big emerging country the other a seasoned world power, will present another case of successful big-country cooperation. Bilateral cooperation could not exist unless it is win-win, an example for a changing world order.