To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions she has had with China on the human rights records of the countries in Africa with which it trades. (79433)

My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary has not had specific discussions with China on human rights in Africa. We continue to develop our dialogue with China on Africa, and to encourage China to engage with Africa in a way that promotes human rights, conflict prevention, sustainable development and democratic and accountable governance. I raised these issues with the Chinese ambassador on 21 June and urged China to develop a wider strategic concept of its engagement in Africa commensurate with its growing economic presence. I also raised China’s engagement in Africa with the Chairman of the UK Friendship Group of the China National People’s Congress during my meeting with him on 13 June.