Brexit Uncertainties: How will post-Brexit UK work with China in economy and trade?

World
Europe

02:27

With the Brexit process still in chaos, countries outside the EU are readying their own economies for what may be an uncertain future. Senior officials from both Great Britain and Ireland have shared how they envision their countries' relationships with China going forward. Yang Chengxi has more.

The back and forth of Brexit may have a ripple effect on China. Many question marks surround the UK's economy, as well as the European single market.

YANG CHENGXI SHANGHAI "Chinese officials said the government is watching the Brexit situation closely and will continue to strengthen cooperation with all affected countries."

PETER ESTLIN LORD MAYOR OF THE CITY OF LONDON "China is already in my view being of great help, both in terms of the way it's looking to liberalize its markets and partner with the UK. Secondly, as a strong partner, it wants to have a new FTA with the UK as soon as possible after leaving the EU. Those are all very welcomed initiatives, ones that we want to continue to develop."

Analysts say the Republic of Ireland will suffer collateral damage, as it shares a border with the UK. How the two should handle future border customs remains a thorny issue, as trade companies on both sides will be impacted. However, officials say new opportunities lie ahead for Ireland, with it soon becoming the only English speaking country in the EU.

ZHANG ZHEWEI, CHINA DIRECTOR INVESTMENT AND DEVELOPMENT AGENCY OF IRELAND "We've secured almost 78 international companies to invest in Ireland because of Brexit. So they had to think about an alternative location outside the UK, but in the EU which can help them continue to support their European market."

Businesses crave certainty, and that goes for people as well. In a recent visit to China by Ireland's Education and Skills Minister, he said Brexit will have no negative effect on the growing talent exchange between China and Ireland.

JOSEPH McHUGH IRISH MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND SKILLS "We have permission visas which will facilitate them working for one year for level nine and upwards, we have a two year permission visa as well, so these are new ways of making lives easier and also make them more accessible."

2019 marks the 40th anniversary of China-Ireland diplomatic relations. Irish officials are expected to host a series of celebratory events in China in the coming months. YCX, CGTN, SHANGHAI.