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Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries

Asked by Jim AllisterTraditional Unionist VoiceForeign, Commonwealth and Development OfficeTabled Answered 12 February 2026UIN 109478

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what assessment her Department has made of the status of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC); and what guidance her Department has issued to devolved institutions on engagement with that organisation.

Answered by Seema Malhotra

The Government is committed to engaging respectfully and constructively with the Devolved Governments on international‑facing issues, recognising their interests and the value of working together where appropriate. Devolved Governments are appropriately briefed on the risks and opportunities of working with China. International relations, however, remain a reserved matter for the UK Government.

Engagement with China provides an important channel to address areas of concern and to cooperate where this aligns with UK interests.

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