UK-China high-level dialogue upgraded again, Reeves met with He Lifeng to focus on trade and security issues

London, June 8, 2025 – British Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng held talks in London today. The meeting was part of a series of high-level talks during his visit to the UK (June 8-13), and was carried out simultaneously with the US delegation’s China-US trade consultations.

Dual track route: Strengthen bilateral ties to meet trilateral challenges
Reeves’ meeting with He Lifeng continued the results of the “11th China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue” co-hosted by the two in January this year. The dialogue was held against the backdrop of the UK and China actively promoting the “multilateral trading system” and financial market connectivity, aiming to enable the UK to play a more stable role in the global trade pattern.

But while “financial cooperation” is concerned, the issue also involves sensitive national security. The British Parliament recently expressed concerns about the proposed new Chinese embassy in London’s “Royal Mint”, believing that its proximity to the financial core and data center may bring strategic risks. In the face of external doubts, British Technology Minister Peter Kyle promised: “Security issues will be thoroughly examined during the planning process.”

Economic cooperation vs. geopolitical concerns: a difficult balancing act
This visit has caused differences within and outside the British Labour government. On the one hand, Reeves aims to restart the Sino-British financial dialogue interrupted by the epidemic and political tensions, and to achieve the liberalization of services and investment; on the other hand, security and human rights issues such as espionage concerns and Hong Kong policies have become the fuse for fierce debate among MPs.

In addition, this visit also indirectly links to the policy alliance with the United States. Washington has expressed deep concern about the UK’s plan to approve the Chinese embassy plan, saying that the project is “too close to key financial and network facilities, and once approved, it will damage intelligence and trade relations.”

Looking forward to the UK’s “balanced diplomacy”
Reeves will push the UK to adhere to the bottom line of national security while strengthening economic cooperation with China. In the next few days, she will continue to negotiate with Chinese officials on financial, technological and trade issues, and will also coordinate dialogues with the United States and the European Union in order to find a “pragmatic path” in a multipolar and competitive global environment.

Ultimately, whether Reeves’ trip can both meet domestic expectations for economic recovery and stabilize the foundation of transatlantic cooperation will determine Britain’s future diplomatic positioning in the era of “cooperation and competition coexisting.”