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Rishi Sunak says UK must ‘evolve’ China foreign policy in face of ‘systemic challenge’
- So-called golden era between the two countries is over and new approach needed in bilateral relations, Sunak says
- China poses a ‘systemic challenge’ to Britain’s values and interests, PM says
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Chad Brayin London
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called for Britain to “evolve” its policy approach to China on Monday, saying in his first major foreign policy address since taking office last month that the so-called golden era between the two countries had ended.
The idea put forth in prior Tory administrations that trade would lead to social and political reform in China was naive and a new approach to relations with Beijing is necessary, Sunak said.
“We recognise China poses a systemic challenge to our values and interests, a challenge that grows more acute as it moves towards even greater authoritarianism,” he said in a speech at the Lord Mayor’s Banquet in London.
Under former prime minister David Cameron, Britain had pushed for greater investment and economic ties as part of what was dubbed a “golden era” of cooperation between the countries that saw Chinese President Xi Jinping make a state visit to Britain in 2015.
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Queen Elizabeth hosts glittering state banquet for China's Xi Jinping
Queen Elizabeth hosts glittering state banquet for China's Xi Jinping
However, Britain should not resort to Cold War rhetoric and must recognise China’s significance in global affairs in crafting its policy, from climate change to global economic stability, Sunak said.
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