The UK government has announced new plans to strengthen its capabilities in response to China’s increasing influence, safeguard sensitive industries, and enforce sanctions. As part of its “Integrated Review Refresh 2023,” the government will establish a new MI5 unit to assist businesses in managing security risks and a new initiative to enhance sanctions enforcement. It will also invest more funds to improve expertise on China amid escalating concerns about the CCP’s actions. The UK has designated China an “Epoch-Defining challenge,” but fell short of formally classifying it as a “threat.” The government’s three-pronged China policy revolves around protecting national security, aligning with allies and partners, and engaging with China for mutual trade and investment interests. Other initiatives detailed in the review include supply chain security measures, strengthening the UK’s soft power, and supporting stability in various global hotspots, including the Taiwan Strait, the Korean Peninsula, and Iran.
Communist China termed as “epoch-defining challenge” in UK foreign policy update.
