In a much-awaited meeting under Kuala Lumpur’s tropical skies, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy sat down Friday to chart a fresh course for bilateral ties. Against the backdrop of regional summits, both leaders underscored the importance of mutual respect and strategic partnership in a rapidly evolving world.
Wang, who also serves on the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted that “under the strategic guidance of our leaders, China and the UK have steered relations onto the right track of improvement and development.” He called on both sides to return to the original spirit of being strategic partners, tackle differences through dialogue, and deliver on the high expectations of businesses, academics, and youth across both nations.
Marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War Two, Wang reminded the audience that China and the UK were co-creators of the post-war order. “As permanent members of the UN Security Council, we share the responsibility to safeguard the fruits of victory, uphold the free trade system, and contribute to global peace and development,” he said, subtly nodding to the shared heritage that still shapes today’s international rules.
For his part, Lammy praised the current momentum in China–UK exchanges. “We see positive growth,” he noted, pointing out that delegations and dialogues are on the rise. London remains committed to the one-China policy and to nurturing a stable, mature relationship that empowers entrepreneurs, researchers, and travellers on both sides.
Beyond bilateral matters, the two diplomats exchanged views on hot-button issues like the Iranian nuclear programme and the crisis in Ukraine, acknowledging that big-picture challenges call for cooperative solutions. By reinforcing communication channels, they aim to tackle global risks with shared vision and action.
For young global citizens, tech entrepreneurs, policy wonks, and digital nomads alike, this meeting signals renewed opportunities. From green finance to academic exchanges, and from trade in high-tech goods to cultural initiatives, the China–UK dialogue continues to shape the contours of tomorrow’s interconnected world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
