David Cameron's links to China could weaken his role on world stage as UK foreign secretary

When Chinese president Xi Jinping cut the ribbon on Sri Lanka's Port City Colombo construction site in September 2014, it was promoted as a future major hub in China's global infrastructure project, the belt and road initiative. With a financial centre, beach-front villas and an international yacht marina, the city is aiming to be a rival to Dubai and Singapore. China has already invested $1.4bn in the development, which is due to be completed by 2041. Some Sri Lankans are worried that the ambitious project may deliver few benefits, have a negative impact on the environment and leave the island…