Britain Approves Controversial Chinese Embassy Amid Security Concerns

The UK government approved China's plan to build its largest European embassy in London, despite security concerns about potential espionage. local protests and Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigners have opposed the project, but Prime Minister Keir Starmer's upcoming visit to China also weighs heavily on this decision.

On Tuesday, the British government granted permission for China to construct its largest European embassy in London, a decision aimed at mending diplomatic ties with Beijing. Nevertheless, concerns persist among UK and US politicians about the potential for espionage activities emanating from the proposed site.

The embassy, planned to be situated on the historic Royal Mint Court grounds near the Tower of London, has faced opposition from local residents and Hong Kong democracy advocates. The decision comes ahead of a planned visit to China by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the first British PM visit to the country since 2018.

Security officials, including MI5, have expressed apprehensions about the new embassy possibly increasing Chinese intelligence activities in the UK. Although intelligence agencies participated in the decision, local residents are considering legal challenges, alleging the British government pre-approved the project informally.

(With inputs from agencies.)