On 3o January 2026, China reiterated its willingness to deepen cooperation with all countries based on mutual benefit and shared gains, following comments by the United States warning the United Kingdom against expanding business ties with China.
The position was articulated on Friday by Guo Jiakun during a regular press conference at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Beijing. Guo was responding to questions from journalists after US President Donald Trump publicly cautioned the United Kingdom against entering into commercial arrangements with China, arguing that closer economic engagement could carry strategic risks.
Guo said China is ready to strengthen cooperation with all countries “based on mutual benefit and win-win outcomes”, adding that such cooperation is intended to deliver concrete benefits to people across the world. He emphasised that normal economic and trade relations should not be politicised or subjected to external pressure, a formulation that reflects China’s consistent opposition to what it describes as the weaponisation of economic ties.
Context of rising US pressure on allies
Trump’s warning to London forms part of a broader effort by Washington to discourage partners and allies from deepening economic links with China, particularly in sectors considered sensitive or strategic. Since returning to the office, Trump has revived a more confrontational trade and industrial policy approach, urging allied governments to align more closely with US positions on China-related economic and security issues.
For the UK, the remarks come at a time of careful recalibration of its China policy. Britain maintains a close security partnership with the United States, while also seeking to preserve room for independent decision-making in trade, investment and financial services. China remains an important trading partner for the UK, with links spanning manufacturing, education, green technology and financial markets.
Beijing’s diplomatic positioning
By responding in a measured and general manner, Beijing avoided direct criticism of the UK or the US, instead reinforcing a broader diplomatic narrative. China’s Foreign Ministry has repeatedly argued that cooperation based on equality, openness and respect for market principles is preferable to bloc-based economic alignment.
Guo’s remarks signal that Beijing remains open to engagement with the UK and other countries, while firmly opposing attempts to influence sovereign economic choices. The episode highlights the growing challenge for middle powers such as Britain as strategic rivalry between Washington and Beijing increasingly spills over into trade and investment decisions.