Concerns Over China’s Support for Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Britain’s Foreign Minister, David Lammy, has expressed serious concerns regarding China’s support for Russia during its ongoing military campaign in Ukraine. During his recent visit to Beijing, Lammy urged his Chinese counterpart to take proactive measures to prevent Chinese companies from supplying military resources to Russia.
This visit marks the first occasion a Cabinet minister from the Labour government has traveled to China since taking office in July. Lammy’s itinerary included a meeting with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang, followed by discussions with Foreign Minister Wang Yi later that same day. The two-day trip aims to mend and reset the increasingly strained relations between the UK and China, which have deteriorated due to various issues, including espionage allegations, China’s backing of Russia, and human rights violations in Hong Kong.
While the British government has characterized its approach to China as “pragmatic and necessary,” Lammy did not shy away from addressing sensitive topics. He raised critical issues such as the conflict in Ukraine and human rights abuses in Hong Kong and the Xinjiang region of China. The Foreign Office issued a statement highlighting Lammy’s emphasis on the shared interests of both the UK and China in promoting peace in Europe and bringing an end to the war. It stated, “Concerns over China’s supply of equipment to Russia’s military industrial complex risk damaging China’s relationships with Europe while simultaneously sustaining Russia’s war efforts.”
Furthermore, Lammy urged Wang Yi to “take all measures to investigate and prevent Chinese companies from supplying Russia’s military.” The two officials agreed to continue their discussions on this matter, along with other geopolitical issues, including the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East.
Adding to the tension, on Thursday, the United States sanctioned two Chinese firms for allegedly assisting Russia in the production of long-range attack drones utilized in the Ukraine war. In response, the Chinese Embassy in Washington dismissed these allegations as unfounded.
- David Lammy’s first visit to China since the Labour government took office.
- Meetings with Vice Premier Ding Xuexiang and Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
- Focus on mending strained UK-China relations.
- Addressing sensitive issues: Ukraine conflict and human rights concerns.
- Emphasis on shared interests in European peace and stability.
- US sanctions on Chinese companies for aiding Russia’s military efforts.