British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves will meet Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng this week as part of a broader diplomatic visit that includes critical trade discussions with the United States.
A British government source confirmed the meeting, although specific timing has yet to be disclosed.
He Lifeng is scheduled to be in the UK from June 8 to June 13.
While in London, he will participate in talks with three senior aides from U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, aimed at resolving ongoing trade disputes between the world’s two largest economies.
Reeves Continues Diplomatic Engagement With Beijing
Reeves previously met He during a visit to China in January as part of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s plan to improve relations with Beijing.
That policy, however, has drawn criticism from several British lawmakers, many of whom remain wary of China’s intentions.
Concerns include repeated allegations of espionage tied to Chinese intelligence and the proposed construction of a massive new Chinese embassy in central London.
Chinese Embassy Proposal Sparks National Security Concerns
The embassy is planned for Royal Mint Court, a historic location near the Tower of London.
If approved, it would become China’s largest diplomatic facility in Europe.
However, the project has stalled following the local council’s refusal to grant planning permission.
The UK government is expected to make the final decision on whether to allow the project to proceed.
The Sunday Times reported that a senior U.S. official warned the site’s proximity to key financial institutions and data centers raised serious national security concerns.
British Technology Minister Peter Kyle responded by saying, “These (security) issues will be taken care of assiduously in the planning process.”
As Reeves prepares for talks with both China and the U.S., her ability to navigate these diplomatic tensions will be closely watched.