London [ UK ], October 22 (ANI): Victor Gao, who once served as a translator for late Chinese leader Deng Xiaoping and is known for promoting Beijing's political stance, has sparked criticism after issuing a veiled threat to the United Kingdom over its hesitation to approve China 's proposed new embassy in London. As reported by Phayul, Gao warned that China would retaliate by denying Britain access to its embassy site in Beijing if the UK blocks the project.
Speaking to Times Radio, Gao said he hoped the British government would avoid "antagonising a major global economy and military power," a statement interpreted as an attempt to pressure London through fear rather than dialogue. When asked whether Prime Minister Keir Starmer would still be welcomed in Beijing should the U