China has escalated a diplomatic row with the United Kingdom by summoning senior envoys to protest against calls for the release of imprisoned media mogul Jimmy Lai.
Diplomatic Confrontation Intensifies
The Chinese foreign ministry expressed what it termed "strong concerns" to diplomats from both Britain and the United States on Tuesday 23 December 2025. This move came in direct response to international condemnation of the conviction and sentencing of Jimmy Lai, the Hong Kong pro-democracy activist and founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily newspaper.
Lai, who holds British citizenship, was found guilty on national security and sedition charges. The UK Foreign Office has publicly stated it believes the case against the 77-year-old is politically motivated. Both London and Washington have demanded his immediate and unconditional release.
A Clash of Narratives
The dispute highlights a fundamental clash in perspectives between Beijing and Western capitals. The United States has accused China of attempting to silence freedom of speech through Lai's prosecution. Beijing, however, remains steadfast, viewing all foreign commentary on the case as an unacceptable intrusion into its domestic legal affairs.
A core point of contention is Lai's nationality. Chinese authorities do not recognise his British citizenship, citing the nation's long-standing policy of not accepting dual nationality for Chinese-born individuals. This position allows them to treat the case as a purely internal matter.
Timing Coincides with High-Profile Visit
The final sentencing in Lai's case is anticipated to occur around the time of Sir Keir Starmer's upcoming official visit to Beijing. The Labour leader's trip, aimed at discussing broader bilateral relations, is now almost certain to be dominated by this contentious human rights issue.
This diplomatic friction underscores the ongoing tensions between the UK and China regarding the governance of Hong Kong and wider geopolitical stances. The summoning of diplomats represents a formal and serious channel of complaint, signalling Beijing's willingness to directly confront Western criticism head-on.
