Question: On December 9, the Strategic Development Committee of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets once again refused planning permission for the new Chinese Embassy project in the UK. What is your comment?

Embassy Spokesperson: The resubmitted planning application for the new Chinese Embassy project has taken into full consideration the UK’s planning policy and guidance as well as views of all relevant parties. This is a high-quality development scheme.

The professional report from the planning officers of Tower Hamlets has expressed explicit support to this planning application. It is deeply disappointing that the Strategic Development Committee of Tower Hamlets has once again failed to consider this planning application based on merits of the matter and relevant professional opinions.

Not long ago, the UK central government has called in the planning application of the new Chinese Embassy project. Host countries have the international obligation to support and facilitate the building of the premises of diplomatic missions. It is hoped that the UK side will fulfill that obligation.