Cameron faces fresh China questions as video shows him praising Sri Lanka port project

As video of newly-appointed UK Foreign Secretary David Cameron touting the advantages of a port project in Sri Lanka surfaced, more doubts about whether he was paid by Chinese interests to support it have been raised, according to a report.

In the video from two months ago, the former prime minister is seen addressing investors in Dubai that he wanted to “correct misapprehensions” about the project and cited a China-funded report that supported the port development, reported The Guardian.

Cameron has been criticised for delivering paid speeches advocating for the Sri Lankan port city, which is being built by a Chinese state firm, China Harbour Engineering Company.

He denies direct engagement with the Chinese firm regarding these speeches, asserting that he was hired by KPMG Sri Lanka.

According to The Guardian, during a parliamentary session, the shadow Cabinet Office minister Pat McFadden raised questions about the true client behind the payment, asking whether it was the Chinese state firm or the Sri Lankan government.

John Glen, responding on behalf of the Cabinet Office, stated that it was not within his purview to answer but affirmed that Cameron had adhered to relevant processes.

The SNP’s Kirsty Blackman expressed concern in Parliament, stating that the perception of Lord Cameron, who had seemingly lobbied for foreign interests, undermines the public’s trust in politicians, added the report.

The video footage captures Cameron referring to a positive report commissioned by the Chinese state company, PWC, which highlights the potential job creation and economic contribution of the project. However, a note in the report indicates that CHEC Port City (Private) Ltd is the client, relying on information provided by them.

“The PWC study shows it could create over 200,000 jobs, it could make a substantial contribution to Sri Lankan GDP,” The Guardian quoted him as saying to the Dubai audience.

Cameron emphasises in the video that he is in Dubai to address misconceptions about the port’s ownership. He asserts that Sri Lanka is the ultimate owner, and the Chinese company has only leased a portion of the land.

Critics have raised concerns about the Chinese firm’s 99-year lease on a significant portion of the new city, fueling worries that it could be used as a military base. The company is ultimately owned by the Chinese state, linked to militarization in the South China Sea.

Notably, Cameron has not disclosed the amount received for these speeches through the Washington Speakers’ Bureau. His spokesperson has disputed reports suggesting a payment of $210,000, maintaining that Cameron has had no direct dealings with China regarding the speaking events.

However, recent reports indicate that Cameron visited the port city in January, accompanied by an executive from CHEC, raising further questions about the nature of his involvement.

With inputs from agencies