The UK is hoping to increase ties with the technology industry of China as Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance leads a delegation of academics and tech figures on a trip to the nation.
Vallance’s delegation will meet with Chinese politicians, academics and business leaders in Beijing on Tuesday to discuss areas where the UK and China can work together on science and technology.
The visit is part of what the government is describing as “pragmatic approach” to relations with China, hoping to secure beneficial collaborative agreements whilst acknowledging the inherent security concerns.
“Science is international by definition, and we can achieve more when we work with others,” said Vallance.
“While we will never compromise our values and national security, we have to be open to all opportunities to improve people’s lives and grow our economy. That can come through cautious, sensible and informed international science cooperation.”
Recent high-profile instances of Chinese espionage in the UK have made relations with the science and technology powerhouse a challenge, but the government has insisted it can maintain a “mutually beneficial relationship”.
“The UK wants a stable, consistent and mutually beneficial relationship with China – where we can be frank about where we disagree, support and uphold academic freedom, but also find targeted opportunities to work together that are in both our interests,” Vallance said.
“Harnessing the vast potential for our scientists and researchers to make joint breakthroughs in global health, clean energy and more is something that UK, China, and the world stand to benefit from.”
As part of this, a meeting of the UK-China Joint Commission on Science and Technology was held today. The commission discusses opportunities in data and intellectual property, climate research and health technology.
