King Charles open to China visit, but palace says it would be carefully considered
LONDON: A British monarch has only ever made one state visit to China: Queen Elizabeth II four decades ago. King Charles III would consider undertaking the second, according to an aide.
King Charles III has indicated he may be open to making a state visit to China, though palace officials have emphasized that any decision would be carefully considered. The late Queen Elizabeth II made the only previous visit to China by a British monarch, a trip in 1986 that included stops in Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. The purpose of the upcoming visit, if it occurs, is said to be dominated by discussions around slavery reparations.
King Charles III, who is nearly 78 years old and currently undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness, is known for his willingness to engage in politically sensitive situations. He was recently praised for his state visit to the United States, where he skillfully handled then-President Donald Trump. Despite strained relations between the UK and China due to issues like Hong Kong’s political situation, human rights criticism, and alleged espionage, UK Prime Minister Andrew Burnham is pursuing a cautious approach of reconciliation similar to that of his predecessor Keir Starmer.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
