The warning, from China's ambassador to the UK, Liu Xiaoming, came after UK Prime Minister Theresa May decided to further delay the Hinkley Point project, reportedly over security concerns, associated with Chinese investment in the nuclear plant.
"If Britain's openness is a condition for bilateral co-operation, then mutual trust is the very foundation on which this is built," Liu wrote in the Financial Times.
China Threatens Britain over Hinkley Point Nuclear White Elephant — Go ahead or there will be trouble
— The Diligent Truth (@DiligentTruth) August 9, 2016
"Right now, the China-UK relationship is at a crucial historical juncture. Mutual trust should be treasured even more. I hope the UK will keep its door open to China and that the British government will continue to support Hinkley Point — and come to a decision as soon as possible so that the project can proceed smoothly."
UK Security, Trade
While not publicly commenting on the reasons for the delay in the project, it has been reported that British PM May has serious security concerns about Chinese involvement in the project.
The Hinkley Point plans will see French state-owned company EDF construct the nuclear plant with the significant Chinese investment, and is expected to create 25,000 jobs in Britain.
HINKLEY POINT National security is paramount when two foreign governments, France & China, are the only two bidders for a strategic GB asset
— Paul Quigley (@quigleyp) July 30, 2016
The delay has not only angered unions, but also called into question the future of UK-Chinese relations, which had been heavily promoted by former Prime Minister David Cameron.
Critics have also raised concerns that any decision to delay the project could damage Britain's post-Brexit reputation as a reliable, open trading partner, as the UK seeks to fond new trade deals outside of the EU.
Hinkley Point mess an obvious break with @George_Osborne's legacy. Big mistake! Britain desperately needs to attract investment from China
— Piers McKenzie-Baker (@PiersHMBaker) July 30, 2016
China's ambassador Liu pointed to the increase in Chinese investment in Britain in recent years, noting that it "has not been easy for China and the UK to have come this far."
Unless the Hickley Point issue is resolved with tact, humility, but a firm hand, this could be a drifting apart of Sino-British relations
— ScenesterishBrit (@NotaTypicalTory) August 2, 2016
"As long as both sides cherish what has been achieved and continue to expand and deepen our co-operation across the board, bilateral relations will maintain their strong momentum and work for the wellbeing of both the Chinese and British people," Liu said.
