Plans to build Chinese embassy in London rejected

(CLO) On December 9, 2024, local officials in London rejected plans to build a large Chinese embassy near the Tower of London, citing security concerns for surrounding residents.

China acquired the Royal Mint Court site, a historic landmark near the Tower of London, in 2018 with the goal of building its largest embassy in Europe, covering approximately 65,000 square meters—almost double the size of its embassy in Washington.

An exterior view of the proposed site for the new Chinese embassy, ​​near Tower Bridge in London. PHOTO: REUTERS

The Tower Hamlets District Council unanimously rejected the project due to security concerns, although the final decision rests with the central government. A planning investigation is expected next year, and a decision will be made no later than May 2025.

Chinese officials have repeatedly expressed dissatisfaction with the delays in granting permits, making efforts to improve relations between the two countries more difficult.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer called for a thorough review of the plan after President Xi Jinping raised the issue during their meeting. The British government under Starmer is pursuing a policy of improving relations with China, aiming to achieve economic benefits after a prolonged period of tension under previous Conservative administrations.

This refusal marks a new challenge in bilateral relations, as the UK must balance national security interests with a desire to improve relations with China.

Hong Hanh (according to Reuters, Straitstimes)

Source: https://www.congluan.vn/ke-hoach-xay-dung-dai-su-quan-moi-cua-trung-quoc-tai-london-bi-tu-choi-post324877.html