China keen on low profile for UK trade delegation
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A delegation of 150 Chinese businessmen arrives in Britain tomorrow, led by a rising star in the Beijing hierarchy who is expected to take over as the country's premier in the next two years.
The arrival of vice-premier Li Keqiang follows a trade visit to China by David Cameron.
But while sensitive issues such as human rights abuse will be raised, no press conferences are to be held – highly unusual for such a high-profile visit – at the explicit request of the Chinese government.
British officials insist that a renewed focus on business deals in foreign policy does not mean that "awkward issues" such as abuse of civil rights will be ignored. However, diplomatic sources say that with around 60 per cent of the Chinese leadership likely to be replaced in the near future – with Mr Li expected to succeed Wen Jiabou – Beijing is going through a "period of introspection" and is less receptive to lobbying.
Complaints about abuse are not one-way, with the Chinese expressing their disquiet about the use of control orders on terrorist suspects and "kettling" in demonstrations.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments