China asserts that Britain had an international obligation to approve its new mega embassy in London, a project that has sparked security and rights concerns.
BEIJING: China said Britain had an “obligation” to approve its new mega embassy in London, a day after the controversial plans were given the green light.
Foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a news conference that providing support for diplomatic premises is an international obligation of the host country.
The 20,000-square-metre site is set to become the largest embassy complex in the UK by area. It will also be one of the largest in the centre of a Western capital.
Plans for the embassy triggered anger and protests from rights groups and activists. They fear the site could be used to spy on and harass dissidents.
British housing minister Steve Reed said the decision was final. However, it could still face legal challenges from London residents who have vowed to act.
Ties between China and Britain plummeted under the previous Conservative government. The new embassy had appeared to be a sticking point in relations.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has sought to reset ties with the economic powerhouse. He will reportedly visit China later this month.
While the embassy approval could boost relations, security minister Dan Jarvis noted ongoing concerns. He said China would continue to pose national security threats to Britain.
