• The UK has approved China's plan for the largest embassy in Europe in London.
• This decision comes ahead of Prime Minister Keir Starmer's expected visit to China.
• Concerns have been raised regarding potential espionage and security risks.

The UK government has officially approved China's proposal to construct a mega embassy in London, located on the historic site of the Royal Mint Court, near the Tower of London. This embassy will be the largest of its kind in Europe, expanding significantly from China's current diplomatic facility in the UK. The approval was announced on January 20, coinciding with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's anticipated visit to China, which would be the first by a British leader since 2018. Some officials indicate that Starmer's visit hinges on the embassy's approval, reflecting the delicate balance between improving ties with Beijing and addressing national security concerns, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

The proposal has faced significant opposition from local residents and rights activists, citing fears that the embassy could serve as a base for surveillance operations against dissidents. Critics have argued that its proximity to sensitive infrastructure, such as underground internet cables, raises significant security risks. A statement from the government emphasized that all relevant considerations, including intelligence agency insights, were taken into account and that “national security is our first duty,” according to Channel News Asia and SCMP.