The statement came following a positive and forward-looking phone conversation between Foreign Minister Wang Yi and British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, where both sides emphasized the importance of communication, respect, and collaboration to advance mutual interests and global stability.

During the conversation, Minister Wang Yi expressed that it is natural for two major nations like China and the UK to have differences in opinions.

However, he stressed that these should not overshadow the overall trajectory of cooperation, nor hinder the shared goal of contributing to peace and progress worldwide.

He encouraged both sides to handle disagreements with wisdom and diplomacy, reaffirming that mutual understanding and constructive dialogue are the cornerstones of healthy bilateral relations.

The discussion focused on strengthening strategic communication and exploring practical avenues to expand cooperation in trade, education, science, and environmental protection.

Both ministers highlighted the value of maintaining people-to-people exchanges and cultural understanding to foster stronger ties between the Chinese and British societies.

Wang Yi emphasized that consistent dialogue and trust are vital to ensuring a balanced and long-term partnership.

Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging China’s growing global role and the importance of a stable, forward-looking relationship between London and Beijing.

Both leaders agreed that their nations share many common goals, including addressing climate change, fostering global economic growth, and contributing to regional and international peace.

They also emphasized the importance of ensuring that bilateral cooperation remains grounded in equality, mutual benefit, and respect for each nation’s sovereignty.

The call underscored the readiness of both countries to “meet halfway” in resolving issues of mutual concern. Although specific topics were not disclosed, the spirit of collaboration and dialogue was evident.

This renewed diplomatic effort reflects a broader recognition that, in an interconnected world, challenges such as climate change, global trade stability, and public health require cooperative action rather than confrontation.

China and the UK have long maintained dynamic economic and cultural relations. The two sides have built strong trade partnerships, with Britain being one of China’s key trading partners in Europe.

The ongoing commitment to maintaining open channels of communication demonstrates the countries’ determination to overcome differences and focus on long-term opportunities for growth.

Wang Yi also emphasized that China remains committed to engaging with the United Kingdom in tackling shared global challenges, including environmental sustainability, technological innovation, and public health resilience.

He highlighted that constructive engagement benefits not only both countries but also contributes to global harmony and development.

The phone conversation between Wang Yi and Yvette Cooper serves as a positive signal to the international community, reaffirming that even amid occasional disagreements, diplomatic maturity and cooperation can prevail.

By promoting steady dialogue and mutual respect, China and the UK are paving the way for deeper collaboration that can set an example for other global partnerships.

As both nations continue to navigate an evolving global landscape, their relationship will play a critical role in fostering economic growth, encouraging cultural exchange, and contributing to peace and stability.

With their combined global influence, China and the UK have the potential to shape international progress and promote shared prosperity through open dialogue, respect, and cooperation.

The reaffirmation of commitment to dialogue marks an optimistic chapter in China-UK relations, one characterized by pragmatism, respect, and shared responsibility toward a stable and interconnected world.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper revoked his travel permission after The Telegraph revealed his upcoming tour of London, Manchester, and Birmingham, titled “Waking the Dead – Returning from the Darkness.” The Home Office concluded his presence was “not conducive to the public good,” citing concerns over public safety and social cohesion.

“Sheikh Farooq will not be permitted to enter the UK,” a Home Office spokesperson confirmed. “Our priority remains maintaining the safety and security of the UK and our communities. We have robust safeguards in place to prevent entry of individuals who seek to sow hatred and division.”

Airlines have reportedly been instructed not to allow Sheikh Farooq to board flights to the UK.

Preacher Under Fire for Comments on Slavery and Women

Sheikh Farooq, who is based in San Diego and affiliated with the One Message Foundation, stirred widespread condemnation after a video surfaced in which he claimed that sexual relations with female slaves captured in war were permissible under Islamic law.

Explaining his view in the video, he said: “Those taken under war as captives… you’re now going to support and keep in your house… they are like a wife… if Allah made it halal, then it’s not sinning, that is not adultery.”

His comments have drawn sharp criticism from human rights advocates, secular organizations, and Muslim community leaders alike.

Fiyaz Mughal, founder of Faith Matters, condemned the preacher’s statements as “abhorrent,” adding, “Saying that sex with slaves is permissible sends a barbaric message to people. We’ve seen what groups like ISIS did to Yazidi women. Such views should not find a platform in the UK.”

Stephen Evans, chief executive of the National Secular Society, said: “Any charity hosting a speaker who condones sexual slavery should have its charitable status seriously reviewed. Promoting misogyny undermines public benefit and social harmony.”

Robert Jenrick, Shadow Justice Secretary, had earlier called on the government to prevent the preacher’s entry. “This man should never step foot on UK soil. His visa must be revoked immediately,” he stated. “Islamists spreading hate and sowing division are not welcome here.”

Sheikh Farooq previously toured parts of the UK last month, delivering lectures that also raised concerns. He has made remarks predicting the Islamization of Europe, the US, and Russia, saying, “The future is ours… every nightmare of a Muslim Europe will come true.” He urged Muslims to “never apologize” or “compromise” their faith.

In another appearance in Leicester, he made comments perceived as anti-Semitic, adding to the backlash.

Sheikh Farooq was set to appear alongside Ustadh Imran ibn Mansur, a social media figure who brands himself a Muslim entrepreneur. Mr. Mansur has shared videos advising Muslim women to create anonymous online content and has made controversial statements about women wearing perfume, calling them “fornicatresses.”

The UK government’s move reflects a broader effort to counter extremist ideologies, particularly those that incite hatred or undermine democratic values. The decision signals zero tolerance for individuals espousing regressive or inflammatory views, regardless of religious affiliation.

The ban underscores Britain’s commitment to ensuring that religious discourse does not become a platform for misogyny, antisemitism, or hate speech cloaked in theological justifications.