UK Foreign Secretary’s Visit to China: James Cleverly, the UK’s Foreign Secretary, has stated that isolating China would be a mistake during his visit to Beijing. This marks the first visit by a UK foreign secretary to China in five years. Cleverly emphasized that while the UK acknowledges its differences with Beijing, it seeks a pragmatic relationship with the world’s second-largest economy.
Cleverly’s discussions included a meeting with China’s vice-president, Han Zheng, and a planned meeting with foreign minister Wang Yi. The Foreign Secretary stressed the importance of continuing regular face-to-face meetings between the two governments to prevent misunderstandings and address differences in bilateral relations.
Cleverly took to social media to affirm that engaging with China involves direct communication of concerns, noting that tough conversations must not be avoided. His visit coincided with the release of a British foreign affairs select committee report urging the government to adopt a zero-tolerance stance against Beijing’s “transnational repression.” The report also called for an unclassified version of the UK’s China Strategy to be made public.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Wang Wenbin, welcomed the growth of bilateral relations between the UK and China, and expressed hope for in-depth communication during Cleverly’s visit.
The Foreign Secretary’s trip addressed concerns over Beijing’s stance on Taiwan and its support for Russia. Cleverly’s discussions will likely impact the UK’s position on China’s actions and international obligations.
