UK Foreign Secretary Visits China in Bid to Stabilize Frayed Ties
Britain’s Foreign Secretary, James Cleverly, embarked on a significant visit to China with the aim of stabilizing and repairing the increasingly strained bilateral relations between the two nations. This visit marks the first time in over five years that a UK foreign secretary has visited China, underscoring the deteriorating ties exacerbated by issues such as Beijing’s crackdown on civil liberties in Hong Kong and human rights abuses against Muslim minorities in Xinjiang.
During his visit, Cleverly held a meeting with Vice President Han Zheng, who expressed hope that the visit would foster the sound and stable development of bilateral relations. Later in the day, the UK Foreign Secretary also met with his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, who holds dual roles as the ruling Communist Party’s top official for foreign affairs and recently resumed his position as foreign minister following the unexplained disappearance of his predecessor, Qin Gang.
Ahead of the visit, Wang Wenbin, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, expressed Beijing’s desire for the British side to collaborate in upholding the spirit of mutual respect, deepening exchanges, enhancing mutual understanding, and promoting the stable development of Sino-British relations.
Cleverly has stated his intention to address pressing issues such as the situation in Xinjiang and Hong Kong. Moreover, he is expected to emphasize the principle that with Chinese influence comes responsibility on the global stage. This includes urging China to contribute to resolving the ongoing crisis of Russia’s invasion in Ukraine and working towards diffusing geopolitical tensions in the South China Sea.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has adopted a nuanced and non-confrontational approach to relations with Beijing. While acknowledging China as a growing systemic challenge to Britain’s values and interests, he has also underscored the importance of maintaining a relationship with the Asian superpower.
Through this visit, the United Kingdom aims to foster dialogue and cooperation while emphasizing the need for responsible and constructive behavior from China on various global issues. As both nations navigate their complex bilateral relationship, the outcome of Cleverly’s visit holds crucial significance for the future direction of Sino-British relations.
