LONDON, Dec. 7 -- Some 50 people from Chinese and British film, TV and media circles gathered in London on Saturday to discuss new trends of international cooperation in film production and marketing strategy.

As part of the first China International Film Festival held London, the forum focused discussions on film copyright, new development of Chinese film industry, how can Chinese films enter international market, imports and distribution of overseas films in China under the current development of new media era, and potential opportunities of China-British film cooperation.

"China's film industry needs to strengthen international exchanges, and seek new modes of cooperation," said He Han, general manager of the Nasdaq-listed Beijing Hangmei Entertainment Co Ltd.

He said China film industry could find new opportunities through international cooperation especially in the fields of technique and creation, so as to create a sound operation mechanism.

Julian Alcantara, producer of the Random Character Pictures, that British film makers had huge interest in Chinese market, adding that they are not only interested in bringing British films to China, but also want to work with Chinese producers and directors in making film.

He said that British film makers welcome cooperation with Chinese counterparts "with open arms."

Kong Xiangxi, chairman of the Committee of the China International Film Festival London, said that internationalization and multiple developments are the trend of contemporary film industry, so as the Chinese film industry.

He hoped that the success of British film production would provide experience for Chinese film makers in such fields as advanced filming techniques, catch storylines, as well as marketing strategies.

The four-day first China International Film Festival London, which opened Friday at the Central Hall of Westminster in London.

Supported by the State General Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television and the British Council, it was attended by famous directors, actors and actresses including Xie Fei, Simon Yam, Jaycee Chan, Huang Yi and Fan Bingbing.

A total of 15 Chinese films, including Lost in Thailand, So Young and Silent Witness have been shown to British audiences.

"We hope that this festival could be a Christmas gift to the British people," said Kong, who is also the founder of the festival.

He told Xinhua that they had an ambitious plan. "This is only a beginning," he said. "We actually aim to promote the Chinese film festival in five European countries, including Great Britain, Germany, Italy, France and Austria."