Zhao Lijian Photo: VCG

The UK government should effectively provide Chinese companies with an open, fair and non-discriminatory business environment, Zhao Lijian, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson, said on Monday, after media reports said that London aims to remove China General Nuclear (CGN) from the country's nuclear power projects.

Zhao said China and the UK are important trade and investment partners, and pragmatic cooperation based on the principles of mutual benefit and win-win is in the interests of both parties.

Zhao's comments came after the Financial Times reported on Sunday that the UK government is exploring ways to remove China's state-owned nuclear energy company from all future power projects in the UK, including the consortium planning to build the new 20 billion pound ($20.79 billion ) Sizewell nuclear power station in Suffolk, citing people close to the discussions.

The Chinese Embassy in the UK also urged London on Monday to provide Chinese companies with a fair and non-discriminatory business environment as both sides can mutually benefit from cooperating in the nuclear energy sector.

The report said the change in mood at the top of the UK government also affects proposals by CGN which plans to build a new nuclear plant at Bradwell-on-Sea in Essex, using its own advanced nuclear reactor technology, and it also raises questions about the future of the UK's nuclear energy development.

CGN could not be reached for comment on Monday. 

Global Times