In response to the G7 of wealthier countries that have tried to take a unified position on Beijing. China said the days when a small group of countries decided the fate of the world were long gone.

The spokesman for the Chinese Embassy in London was quoted as saying: "The days when a small group of States dictated global decisions have long since come to an end."

He added: "We always believe that nations, whether large or small, strong or weak, rich or poor, and the affairs of the world should be managed through consultation with all nations."

One of the most important geopolitical events of the modern era is the resurgence of China as a leading global power.

The G7 leaders, meeting in the south of England, are seeking a unified position on China in the light of the impressive economic and military growth they have achieved over the past four decades.

A senior official in the administration of United States President Joe Biden announced that G-7 leaders had reached agreement on the need for a common approach to China's low-price export sales and human rights violations.