BEIJING: China has handled its planning for a new UK embassy building in full compliance with international diplomatic practices and relevant laws and regulations, China’s foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.
Britain’s government gave approval on Tuesday for China to build its largest embassy in Europe in London, hoping to improve ties with Beijing despite warnings from British and US politicians that it could be used as a base for spying.
Providing support and construction of diplomatic premises is the host country’s international obligation, Guo Jiakun told reporters at a regular press conference, according to Reuters.
The UK government has given China the green light to build a “mega-embassy” in the heart of London eight years after Beijing bought the site, triggering fresh anger from residents and rights groups.
The 20,000-square-metre (235,000-square-foot) site is set to become the largest embassy complex in the UK by area, and one of the largest in the centre of a Western capital.
But it could still face legal challenges and residents vowed Tuesday to act. Housing minister Steve Reed’s decision to grant planning permission came after several delays over national security concerns.
There have also been protests by activists who fear the sprawling site could be used to spy on and harass dissidents.
