The Chinese state is said to be looking for a site for an embassy in London, to replace a smaller building. It’s not a minor ambition to have here. If it seeks to follow in the footsteps of the US, after its move to Nine Elms, it’ll find itself in a much better position at a difficult time.
It’s faced criticisms for not funding diplomatic missions fully, stopping short of providing resources to make a proper effort. This may be interpreted by some as laziness, or a lack of interest in the process. Its economic might may give the impression it doesn’t need to try.
However, an embassy is a chance to impress yourself on an overseas ‘client’ state. It gives place – and purpose – to finding things in common. The exercise is diplomatic as it gives a taste or flavour to an experience of knowing each other, using soft power as the process.
It’s also an outpost for your statecraft as it relates to other things. It may be promoting culture more broadly, providing services, or maintaining links that are usually difficult to keep going, like with monarchies. These are the things that embassy staff are able to do well.