Amid Global Turbulence, China-UK Ties Face Crucial Choice
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper on Thursday about the future of bilateral relations during a period marked by global instability.
Strategic Communication and Sustainable Development
Wang emphasized that China-UK relations will "either forge ahead or drift downstream" amid current global challenges. He urged both countries to enhance strategic communication and foster sustainable development of their ties on a healthy, mutually beneficial, and stable path.
"Both sides should enhance strategic communication and promote the sustainable development of bilateral relations along a healthy, mutually beneficial, and stable track."
Shared International Responsibilities
Wang acknowledged the important role China and the UK play in maintaining world peace, stability, and development. He reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to the UN Charter and its role in the international system, respect for every nation's sovereignty and territorial integrity, peaceful dispute resolution, global free trade, adherence to WTO rules, and the stability of global industrial and supply chains.
"Beijing upholds the UN Charter and the UN's position in the international system, respects the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries, advocates for peaceful dispute resolution, supports global free trade and WTO rules, and ensures the stability of the global industrial and supply chains."
Handling Differences and Maintaining Stability
Although differences are considered normal, Wang called for efforts to boost mutual understanding as a foundation for stable bilateral relations. He highlighted the importance of responding to occasional tensions with clarity and prudence to sustain the overall positive trajectory of China-UK ties.
"Regarding the occasional noises and disturbances, it is particularly important to keep a clear head, handle them actively and prudently, and maintain the main tone of the development of bilateral relations."
Author's summary: In dialogue amid global unrest, China’s Wang Yi urges the UK to strengthen strategic ties through communication, mutual respect, and steady cooperation to ensure long-term stability.