BEIJING: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi engaged in discussions with the UK’s Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, David Lammy, in Beijing on Friday, as reported by Xinhua. The talks were centered on strengthening the China-UK relationship, emphasizing mutual respect and collaboration in international matters.

According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the importance of both nations, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and significant global economies, in upholding the UN-centered international order. He stressed the need for the two countries to work together to address global challenges and enhance national development. Wang expressed China’s readiness to adhere to the consensus reached by the leaders of both countries, aiming to deepen strategic communication and practical cooperation.

Wang remarked on the historical progress of China-UK relati
ons, stating that they are at a new starting point. He acknowledged the British Labour government’s proposal for a long-term and strategically significant relationship with China, which aligns with the bilateral interests and global trends. Emphasizing non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, Wang called for respect for each other’s concerns and the strengthening of dialogue to foster an atmosphere conducive to communication and cooperation.

The Chinese Foreign Minister also announced China’s agreement to fully restore dialogue and cooperation mechanisms in several fields, including trade, finance, green development, science and technology, health, education, and culture. He reiterated China’s willingness to collaborate with countries like the UK to uphold multilateralism and promote international fairness and open development.

David Lammy, the British Foreign Secretary, expressed the UK government’s commitment to enhancing dialogue and cooperation with China. He stressed the importance of managin
g differences respectfully and maintaining a long-term stance on the Taiwan question. Lammy also expressed the UK’s desire to expand cooperation with China in areas such as climate change, energy, technology, and international development, seeking to embark on a new phase of the UK-China partnership.

Both officials underscored their roles as permanent members of the UN Security Council in upholding free trade and addressing geopolitical crises through diplomatic means.