Chinese Foreign Minister Visits UK After 10 Years, Talks Focus on Trade and Disagreements
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Britain on Thursday for the first time in 10 years. During his visit, he met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Foreign Minister David Lammy, and National Security Adviser Jonathan Powell.
According to Reuters, this visit marks an important step in improving relations between the two countries after years of tension.
Prime Minister Starmer joined one of the meetings and told Wang Yi that he wants a “steady and respectful” relationship with China. Starmer’s spokesperson said the Prime Minister hopes to strengthen cooperation in areas like trade and investment, which benefit both countries.
However, Starmer also made it clear that Britain will speak openly about issues where the two countries disagree, such as human rights and political differences.
Foreign Minister David Lammy discussed global issues with Wang Yi, including the war in Ukraine and security in the Middle East. But Lammy also said he would continue to raise concerns about China’s treatment of pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, like businessman Jimmy Lai, and the sanctions placed on British lawmakers.
This visit comes after Britain’s Labour government, which took power in July, promised to improve ties with China. Under the previous Conservative government, relations between the two countries had reached their lowest point in decades. The Labour government now sees rebuilding this relationship as a key part of its foreign policy.
Reuters reports that while both sides are working to improve cooperation, challenges remain, especially on issues like human rights and political freedom.
This visit is seen as a step toward better communication, but it also highlights the differences that still exist between the two nations.
(Credit: This simplified explanation is based on original reporting by Reuters.)
https://www.reuters.com/world/uk/uk-china-talks-cover-contentious-issues-2025-02-13