Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the obstacles faced by the new Chinese embassy project in London, attributing these challenges to the United States' strategic efforts to contain China, particularly through pressure on the UK government [3][4]. Group 1: Project Background - The new Chinese embassy project in London was expected to commence construction but has suddenly stalled due to external pressures [3]. - Reports indicate that the White House pressured the UK government two months prior, threatening to jeopardize a US-UK tariff agreement if the project was not denied [3][4]. - The US claimed that the embassy's location posed risks of sensitive financial data leaks, using this as leverage against the UK [3]. Group 2: US Influence and Strategy - The US is concerned about improving Sino-British relations, as it could diminish American influence over the UK and weaken its position in the geopolitical landscape [4]. - The US has employed various tactics, including public opinion manipulation and allegations of security risks, to undermine the project [4]. - There are indications that protests against the embassy site may have been funded by the US to create additional pressure on the UK government [4]. Group 3: Implications for China and the UK - The US's claims of security risks are described as baseless, with the new embassy intended to replace outdated facilities and enhance working conditions for Chinese diplomats [6]. - The article argues that US intervention represents a serious infringement on UK sovereignty and questions the UK's ability to manage risks effectively [6]. - The US's extensive network of diplomatic and military installations globally is highlighted, suggesting a double standard in its criticism of China's actions [6].

Group 1 - The U.S. Department of State has imposed sanctions on Shandong Shengxing Chemical Co., Ltd. for purchasing over $1 billion worth of Iranian crude oil, marking a continued effort to disrupt China's independent refining enterprises [1][2] - Shandong independent refining enterprises account for over 15% of China's refining capacity and are seen as key targets in the U.S. strategy to cut off Iranian oil exports [2][3] - In the first seven months of 2023, China imported an average of 917,000 barrels of Iranian crude oil per day, with independent refiners accounting for approximately 87% of this volume [1] Group 2 - The sanctions are expected to disrupt the supply chain of China's energy sector, with nearly 30% of Shandong's refineries already shutting down or reducing production due to environmental policies and sanction pressures [3] - Experts suggest that independent refiners should strengthen cooperation with countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE to secure non-sanctioned crude oil supplies and utilize the RMB cross-border payment system to mitigate dollar settlement risks [3] - The refining industry is advised to shift from a "processing" model to a high-value-added industry chain, focusing on producing chemicals like PX to meet domestic PTA demand [3]