China Demands UK Support on Taiwan, Threatens Diplomatic Break

China has issued a stark warning to the United Kingdom, threatening to sever diplomatic ties unless Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer publicly supports Beijing’s claim over Taiwan. In a statement, Zheng Zeguang, China’s ambassador to the UK, emphasized that the future of UK-China relations hinges on Britain’s recognition that “Taiwan has never been a country” and belongs to China.

Zheng referenced an “unequivocal commitment” made by the UK when diplomatic relations were established with the People’s Republic of China in 1972, asserting that this agreement must not be disregarded. Historically, the UK has acknowledged China’s claim over Taiwan but has stopped short of endorsing it outright. Taiwan, which operates as a separate democratic entity with a population of approximately 23 million, has been governed independently of mainland China since 1949.

Beijing’s position is clear: it views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control. The Chinese government regularly demonstrates military might by conducting operations near the island, deploying warships and aircraft almost daily. In response to Zheng’s comments, former UK security minister Tom Tugendhat criticized China’s interpretation of international law, particularly its assertion that UN General Assembly Resolution 2758 grants it dominion over Taiwan. Tugendhat stated that such issues are fundamentally for the Taiwanese people to decide, and any economic coercion to enforce submission is legally indefensible.

Heightened Tensions with China

This diplomatic confrontation comes amid escalating tensions between the UK and China, particularly following a Chinese spy scandal and concerns regarding the potential construction of a new Chinese embassy in London. British officials fear that this facility could serve as a conduit for sensitive information gathering.

Adding to the strain, China’s Defence Minister Dong Jun recently reaffirmed his country’s intent to unify Taiwan with the mainland, describing this aim as integral to the post-war international order. Speaking at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, Dong asserted that China would never tolerate any attempts at Taiwanese independence and is prepared to counteract any external military interference.

The forum, which took place shortly after a grand military parade in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, showcased China’s advanced military capabilities, including hypersonic missiles and modern tanks. Dong emphasized the necessity of upholding a “UN-centred international system” to maintain global peace and stability.

He criticized unspecified foreign nations for practices that aim to expand their influence and coerce others into aligning with their interests, suggesting these actions could lead to global chaos and conflict.

As the UK navigates these complex diplomatic waters, the response from Sir Keir Starmer and his party remains pivotal in shaping future relations between the UK and China. The stakes are high, with implications that could affect not only the two nations but also the broader international community, particularly in the context of Taiwan’s ongoing struggle for recognition and autonomy.