#chinauk-relations

#chinauk-relations

A vast new Chinese embassy complex in east London is almost certain to be formally approved next week despite renewed worries among Labour MPs about potential security risks and the effect on Hong Kong and Uighur exiles in the capital. The green light for the super-embassy at Royal Mint Court near Tower Bridge would smooth relations before Keir Starmer's visit to China, which is expected to take place at the end of January, but officials insist there has been no political input in the planning process.

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On Friday, Beijing's foreign affairs ministry said the delay went "entirely against the UK's commitments and previous remarks about improving China-UK relations". Downing Street said it did not "recognise any claims of commitments or assurances", adding that the planning process was independent of ministers. Asked about the latest delay on Friday, Beijing's ministry of foreign affairs accused the UK of "constantly complicating and politicizing the matter".