OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE BRITISH EMBASSY IN CHINA

The British Embassy in China wishes to issue the following statement regarding recent developments in bilateral relations between the United Kingdom and China:

Background

In recent years, the United Kingdom and China have enjoyed a strong and constructive partnership built upon shared interests and mutual respect. Our countries have cooperated on a wide range of issues, including trade, education, and cultural exchange. We have worked to deepen our understanding of each other's cultures and perspectives, and to promote greater cooperation and collaboration between our governments and people.

Recent Developments

However, in recent weeks, the British government has become increasingly concerned about developments in Hong Kong, and has expressed its strong support for the rights and freedoms of the Hong Kong people. We have also expressed our concern about the reported treatment of Uighur Muslims in Xinjiang, including reports of forced labor and human rights violations. These are serious matters that require careful consideration and action.

Our Position

The British government remains committed to engaging constructively with China to address these issues and to uphold our shared values of respect for human rights and the rule of law. We believe that dialogue and engagement are the best way to resolve our differences and to promote greater understanding and cooperation between our countries.

However, we also believe that the international community has a responsibility to speak out against human rights abuses wherever they occur. We will continue to raise our concerns with China both privately and publicly, and we will work with our partners in the international community to ensure that the voices of the Hong Kong people and the Uighur Muslims are heard and their rights protected.

Conclusion

The United Kingdom and China have a long and rich history of cooperation and friendship, and we remain committed to building upon this foundation in the years ahead. We will continue to engage with China on a wide range of issues, and we will continue to work to promote greater understanding and collaboration between our governments and people.

However, we also believe that it is important to be honest and forthright about our concerns, and to work together to address them in a constructive manner. We are confident that by working together, we can resolve our differences and build an even stronger and more prosperous partnership for the future.