China Urges UK to Keep Security Off Trade Table in Diplomatic Push

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called on Britain to provide a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory business environment for Chinese companies and to avoid imposing security implications on economic and trade issues. The remarks came during his meeting with British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband in Manila, the Philippines, on Thursday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, stressed that the China-UK relationship transcends the bilateral scope and carries global significance as both are major countries and permanent members of the UN Security Council. He noted that China takes note of the new UK government’s commitment to maintaining continuity in its policy toward China and hoped Britain would adhere to the one-China principle.

He expressed China’s expectation to work closely with the new UK government through high-level exchanges to consolidate political trust and deepen practical cooperation. Wang urged both sides to transcend differences, uphold multilateralism, support the revitalization of the UN’s central role, and oppose unilateral bullying and protectionism.

In response, Miliband said the new UK government places great importance on relations with China and will continue to build the long-term comprehensive strategic partnership. He emphasized that the UK’s longstanding position on the Taiwan question remains unchanged and expressed readiness to enhance exchanges and cooperation on climate change and multilateral platforms.

The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues, including the Middle East and Gulf regions.

Article and image source: taiwansun.com