The UK government stated on Tuesday that China’s attempts to spy and destabilize the economy and democracy in the country have increased. However, Beijing remains a crucial economic partner for the United Kingdom. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy noted that “China’s power is an undeniable reality,” and freezing relations with the world’s second-largest economy “is not an option.”
Lammy’s remarks came during a parliamentary address while presenting the results of the UK government’s review of its relationship with China. He highlighted that China is the UK’s third-largest trading partner and the second-largest source of international students for British universities. Lammy added that China will continue to play a vital role in supporting the UK’s secure growth.
The Labour government conducted a thorough review of UK-China relations after being elected nearly a year ago, aiming to balance economic interests with national security. While many details of the review remain confidential for security reasons, the government resisted pressure from anti-China factions in Parliament to classify China as an equal threat to Russia.
No immediate response from China regarding the review was reported.
— news from بوابة الشروق