Lammy's China Visit Resets UK Diplomatic Ties

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy's visit to China marks the first engagement by a senior UK official since the Labour government took office in July, aiming to reset bilateral ties. Meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Lammy emphasized the need for pragmatic engagement despite contentious issues like China's support for Russia's war in Ukraine and human rights concerns in Hong Kong and Xinjiang. The visit seeks to balance economic cooperation, given China is the UK's fourth-largest trading partner, with candid discussions on security and democratic freedoms. Lammy urged China to halt its support for Russia and addressed the detention of British citizen Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong. The visit symbolizes a shift from the previous government's more critical stance, as the UK seeks a consistent long-term strategy with China. While both countries acknowledge significant differences, they also recognize shared interests such as the global green energy transition.