British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has urged China to prevent its companies from supporting Russia’s military, following a meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi. The discussion took place on the sidelines of an ASEAN Foreign Ministers event in Laos and marked the first meeting between the two since Lammy took office following the Labour Party’s July 4 British election win.
Commitment to Ukraine
During the meeting, Lammy emphasized the UK’s strong commitment to Ukraine. He highlighted the importance of preventing Chinese companies from supporting Russia’s military-industrial complex, which poses a significant threat to international security and prosperity. “The Foreign Secretary underlined the UK’s ironclad commitment to Ukraine and urged China to prevent its companies supporting Russia’s military industrial complex,” the British statement said.
Strategic Approach to UK-China Relations
The UK Foreign Office described the meeting as constructive. Lammy outlined the government’s “long-term, consistent and strategic approach to UK-China relations,” stating that the UK would cooperate where possible, compete where necessary, and challenge where required. “He made clear the UK would always stand firm in prioritising our national security, as well as supporting human rights,” the statement added.
In a statement issued by China following the meeting, Wang Yi emphasized the importance of establishing the right policy orientation and maintaining a balanced, pragmatic, open, and cooperative attitude. This perspective highlights China’s approach to fostering constructive bilateral relations.
This meeting underscores the complex dynamics of UK-China relations, particularly in the context of international security and human rights. Both sides expressed their commitment to strategic dialogue, with the UK emphasizing its stance on national security and support for Ukraine, and China advocating for a balanced and cooperative approach.
With Inputs from Reuters
