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The rapport between Britain and China appears to be on an upward trajectory, a fact that many in both countries likely find quite heartening. Foreign Secretary David Lammy recently met his Chinese counterpart, Wang Yi, amidst the busy streets of Beijing and Shanghai’s bustling business milieu this past October. It wasn’t long before British Prime Minister Keir Starmer himself was engaging with President Xi Jinping during the G20 Summit in Brazil. From the UK’s perspective, the takeaway was a firm pledge to pursue "global stability, economic cooperation, and the clean energy transition," a testament to mutual goals. As echoed by Zheng Zeguang, China’s ambassador to the UK, during the seventh China-UK Economic and Trade Forum on November 21st, readiness is evident to build upon the understandings reached by the leaders.
The naysayers, particularly some segments within Britain’s press, have issued their predictable doubts. Yet, dwelling on that seems unnecessary, especially when the arguments for improved relations are so unequivocally rational. After a decade in Beijing, I see an opportunity for both nations to move past distrust, thereby unlocking fruitful cooperation.
A partnership between Britain and China is what the world requires. Green collaborations could ensure we remain on a path to net zero. Britain’s and China’s shared appreciation for nature offers a common ground. Together, we might propose globally significant climate policies.
In fields of green technologies and sustainable initiatives, there’s tremendous potential awaiting both economies. As the global community pivots toward a low-carbon paradigm, both countries stand to gain by sharing expertise. The UK brings its prowess in climate finance while China presents sheer scalability in green innovations. It’s a promising synergy waiting to be harnessed.
Education also presents vast opportunities. China’s transition from manufacturing to an innovation-driven economy is noteworthy. A growing number of Chinese students are favoring art and humanities within UK institutions. One of my students, with aspirations in media and film, has chosen my hometown’s Bournemouth University. While it’s not an academic titan, it offers the needed creative tools for burgeoning fields in China.
Historically, Britain might benefit from letting go of past notions of "exceptionalism" and special ties. Reflecting upon past blunders could offer insights into shaping enduring British-Chinese ties. Captain John Weddell’s overly demanding approach in the 1637 Macau expedition only resulted in concessions but no real progress. In a similar vein, the 1793 Macartney Mission failed to create preferential trade arrangements with China.
Acknowledging past missteps allows today’s diplomats to appreciate China’s vision of a "multipolar world." The Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies China’s commitment. This monumental undertaking has lifted millions out of poverty since the 1950s. Modern China boasts both transport and digital infrastructure that opens vast markets to local enterprises.
The China-Europe Railway Express is a testament to efficient logistics. Reducing travel time to just 25 days by train, it knits together 217 cities in Europe directly with China, bolstering export ventures.
Moreover, knowledge-sharing is embedded within this framework. Over the last few years, China dispatched over 500 scientific experts to Africa, while providing close to 9,000 training slots for the continent’s farmers. Projects like Morocco’s Kenitra gigafactory highlight successful joint ventures.
Healthcare sees similar endeavors. Take Peru, where joint cooperation has yielded a modern hospital catering to regional health needs previously unmet.
Understandably, cynics might view these as China’s bid for global influence. Yet, the evolving world economy offers ample opportunities for all. A European-bound train laden with low-cost Chinese electric cars can also return brimming with European goods for China’s expanding middle class. With China’s exports to Group of Seven nations decreasing—from 48% in 2000 to under 30% last year—the drive for a "special position" from the West might seem less tenable.
The post-World War II era has championed globalization, trade, and cooperation—the hallmarks driving global progress. Trade agreements and investments continue to open new markets, something both Britain and China must embrace. For the benefit of their populations and the global community, these budding ties warrant nurturing.
The author chairs the Society for Anglo-Chinese Understanding. Founded in 1965, it seeks to foster friendship and understanding between Britain and China.
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