BEIJING, July 14 -- Chinese Premier Li Keqiang has congratulated Theresa May on her new role as British prime minister.

In a message dated Wednesday, Li said that China-Britain relations have maintained momentum in recent years, as shown by frequent exchange of high-level visits, steady development of pragmatic cooperation and more people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

China appreciates Britain's pioneering spirit in its effort to boost cooperation with China, and is ready to work with Britain to expand and deepen bilateral relations so as to better benefit the two peoples, Li said.

China is looking forward to May's attendance at the Group of 20 summit in Hangzhou, China, scheduled for September, said Li. He also expressed the hope that a new round of annual prime ministerial meeting could be held at a time convenient to both sides.