In a crucial meeting between British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday, the former raised significant concerns about China’s interference in the UK’s parliamentary democracy. This high-level dialogue, which took place on the sidelines of the G20 summit in New Delhi, is the most significant bilateral interaction since 2018.
The backdrop to this conversation included a recent revelation by the British media. Reports emerged that two men were arrested in the UK in March on charges of spying for China. Notably, one of them was a parliamentary researcher associated with senior MPs of Sunak’s Conservative Party, primarily working on foreign policy issues.
Following the meeting, Sunak’s office stated that while he shared these substantial concerns with Premier Li, he simultaneously acknowledged China’s significant role in the global arena. The British Prime Minister highlighted the potential for cooperation in areas like technology and climate change, a sentiment that the Chinese foreign ministry echoed.
Li Qiang, who is second in command within China’s political hierarchy, is representing the country at the G20 summit. His presence instead of President Xi Jinping has raised eyebrows, with no clarification provided for the latter’s absence. The premier emphasized the need for strengthened cooperation between the UK and China in sectors such as trade, investment, green initiatives, humanities, and technology.
This dialogue takes place amid a broader European and American shift towards reducing economic reliance on China. However, Premier Li championed the importance of sustaining the multilateral trading framework, as governed by the World Trade Organization. He underscored the necessity to preserve a stable global supply chain and expressed that both nations should engage in disagreements with mutual respect and understanding.
Li remarked, “China and the UK are staunch advocates and beneficiaries of free trade. They must jointly counter the securitization and politicization of economic topics and foster an open global economy.”
Post the imposition of the National Security Law on Hong Kong in 2020, London has exhibited a firmer stance towards Beijing. Taking cues from the US’s decision, the UK also banned Huawei, a prominent Chinese telecom equipment manufacturer, based on national security apprehensions.
The meeting between Sunak and Li was significant not just for their countries but within the larger geopolitical landscape. James Cleverly, the British Foreign Secretary, had visited China the previous month, marking another high-profile UK-China interaction since 2018. During his visit, Cleverly communicated with China’s Vice-President Han Zheng and foreign policy leader Wang Yi. Key topics like human rights in Hong Kong and Xinjiang, alleged cyber threats from China, Taiwan’s status, and Russia’s actions in Ukraine were on the agenda. Additionally, Cleverly appealed to China to rescind sanctions imposed on specific British parliamentarians.
Trade figures indicate a decline in transactions between the UK and China. In 2022, there was a 5.3% year-on-year drop, amounting to US$103.3 billion. The initial eight months of the current year recorded a further 0.6% reduction.
Li reiterated the importance of open trade relations in other meetings. In talks with European Union Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the Chinese Premier emphasized the mutual advantages of free trade. To von der Leyen, Li conveyed that China’s growth offers opportunities to the world rather than risks. He also vowed to increase collaboration with the EU on pressing climate issues like clean energy, green finance, and support for nations impacted by climate change.
Von der Leyen, in a subsequent tweet, expressed hope for China’s positive influence in ensuring peace in Ukraine.
Another point of international interest has been Italy’s involvement in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure scheme spearheaded by China. Although Meloni has previously hinted at Italy’s potential withdrawal from the BRI, she has not announced any official decision. After her meeting with Li, she shared that they had reaffirmed their commitment to deepening dialogue on bilateral and international subjects. Li emphasized the mutual advantage of bolstering bilateral trade and maintaining the security of the global supply chain.
In summary, the G20 summit saw pivotal discussions between global leaders. The meeting between Sunak and Li was particularly notable given recent developments and concerns. Both nations acknowledged challenges but also recognized opportunities for mutual growth and cooperation in the changing global landscape.
Read More: