Prime Minister Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretary James Cleverly have defended the government’s engagement with Beijing during the latter’s China trip on Wednesday. The first ministerial visit to China since 2018 has faced criticism from China hawks and human rights advocates. However, Cleverly stated that it is important to maintain open talks with China in order to influence them. He acknowledged the UK’s fundamental disagreements with China but believes a pragmatic working relationship is necessary.
Prime Minister Sunak also supports the visit and acknowledges that China represents a systemic challenge to the world order. He stated that while the government has been robust in standing up for its values, it is sensible to engage with China to find common ground on global issues such as climate change and health.
Critics, including former Conservative Party leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, have likened the trip to appeasement of Nazi Germany. However, Alicia Kearns, the chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee, who is sanctioned by China, supports the visit, stating that it is important for Cleverly to be in the room to vociferously disagree with Chinese leaders and make their position clear.
There are reports that Prime Minister Sunak is open to meeting Chinese leader Xi Jinping during the upcoming G20 summit in India. Kearns believes that they should meet if the opportunity arises as it helps prevent and deconflict potential issues. However, Sunak has stated that his G20 schedule is yet to be finalized.
During their meetings with Cleverly, Chinese officials emphasized “mutual respect.” Both sides expressed the need for mutual understanding, trust, and eliminating unnecessary interference and obstacles in Sino-British relations. Beijing also seemed eager to repair its relationship with the UK due to its ailing economy.
Trade between China and the UK has been significant, with a total trade in goods and services of £111 billion in 2022. However, the political climate and China’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to a decrease in confidence among British businesses. A recent survey found that one in five British importers has moved their supply chains away from China.
The Foreign Affairs Committee, chaired by Kearns, published a report calling for the government to publish an unclassified version of its secret China strategy. The lack of publicly available government advice or legal restraint makes it difficult for individuals and businesses to know where the line is concerning partnerships with China. The committee also emphasized the need for better understanding of the UK’s “One China” policy, stating that Taiwan is effectively an independent country.
Overall, the government’s engagement with Beijing has faced criticism but has also received support. Maintaining open talks with China is seen as important to influence them, find common ground on global issues, and address disagreements. The government is urged to promote better understanding of the UK’s stance on China and foster friendships with Taiwan and nearby countries with similar values.