BEIJING
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Wednesday, marking a significant diplomatic moment as the two leaders moved to restart and recalibrate UK–China relations after years of strained ties.
The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People, was the first by a British prime minister to China in eight years and signaled a clear shift in tone from London, as Starmer’s government seeks a more pragmatic and balanced engagement with Beijing amid a changing global landscape.
Starmer told Xi that the United Kingdom wants a “more sophisticated and stable relationship” with Chinaone that allows for cooperation on shared global challenges while managing disagreements openly and responsibly. He described China as a major global player and stressed the importance of sustained dialogue between the two countries.
President Xi welcomed the visit, saying relations between China and the UK had experienced “twists and turns” in recent years that had not served the interests of either side. He called for a long-term, stable partnership, urging both nations to rise above differences and work together in an increasingly complex international environment.
The talks focused heavily on economic and trade cooperation, with Starmer leading a delegation that included senior ministers and business representatives. China remains one of the UK’s largest trading partners, and British officials said the visit aimed to unlock new opportunities for exports, investment, and economic growth.
Both leaders discussed expanding collaboration in areas such as green energy, climate change, finance, education, and technology, while acknowledging the need for safeguards around national security and critical infrastructure. UK officials emphasized that engagement with China would be guided by national interest and transparency.
Migration and law enforcement cooperation also featured on the agenda. The two sides explored ways to improve coordination against human trafficking and smuggling networks, including efforts to disrupt supply chains linked to small-boat crossings to the UK.
Human rights concerns were raised during the discussions, according to British officials. Starmer made clear that improving relations would not mean ignoring areas of disagreement, including issues related to Hong Kong and civil liberties. He stressed that such concerns should be addressed through direct and respectful dialogue rather than diplomatic silence.
The visit comes at a time of broader geopolitical uncertainty, with shifting alliances and renewed tensions between major powers. Analysts say London’s engagement with Beijing reflects an effort to diversify diplomatic relationships while maintaining close ties with traditional allies.
Starmer’s approach marks a departure from the more confrontational tone seen in recent years, instead favoring structured engagement paired with clear red lines. UK officials described the strategy as one of cooperation where possible and firmness where necessary.
While no major agreements were formally signed during the meeting, both sides signaled intent to deepen dialogue and rebuild trust, with further discussions planned at ministerial and working levels. Chinese officials also indicated they would consider steps to ease travel and business exchanges, though no specific commitments were announced.
Starmer is expected to continue his visit with meetings involving senior Chinese officials and business leaders, including engagements in Shanghai, as the UK looks to translate diplomatic momentum into tangible economic outcomes.
As the talks concluded, both leaders struck a cautiously optimistic tone, framing the meeting as a starting point rather than a conclusion. For London and Beijing, the encounter underscored a shared recognition that sustained engagementdespite differencesremains essential in an interconnected world.
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