China’s GDP growth in 2020 a ‘truly hard-won outcome’, says Premier Li Keqiang
- China posted 2.3 per cent gross domestic product growth in 2020 despite a steep slump in the first quarter due to the coronavirus shock
- Premier Li Keqiang also told a webinar on Wednesday that Beijing remained committed to its relationship with Britain despite recent tensions
China’s Premier Li Keqiang believes the global economy faces “many uncertainties and destabilising factors” as it battles the coronavirus pandemic, while also insisting Beijing remains committed to its relationship with Britain despite recent tensions.
This was a “truly hard-won outcome” but “daunting challenges” posed by the pandemic remain, Li said in a video message.
“Through tireless efforts, China’s economic fundamentals will be more solid,” he added.
Sino-British relations have soured over the past year after Britain ordered equipment from Chinese telecoms giant Huawei Technologies Co. to be completely purged from its 5G network by 2027, and offered Hong Kong residents the chance to become British citizens.
That followed Beijing’s introduction of a national security law in the former British colony.
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China’s economy accelerated at end of 2020, but virus-hit annual growth lowest in 45 years
Non-Chinese nationals travelling from Britain are currently not allowed to enter China due to coronavirus restrictions.
However, Li described Britain as an “important cooperation partner in Europe” for China, and said the two sides were better placed than in the past to overcome difficulties and obstacles.
“No matter how regional and international events evolve, China’s commitment to its relations with the UK remains as strong as ever,” Li said.
“We will further build up cooperation and put China-UK relations on a firmer footing.”
