Beijing, Jan 29 (AP): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday called for deeper engagement and a “comprehensive strategic partnership” between the UK and China, as shifting global dynamics and disruptions to international trade reshape diplomatic priorities.
Although neither leader referred directly to US President Donald Trump, the impact of Washington’s challenge to the post-Cold War global order was evident in their remarks, with both emphasising cooperation to maintain stability.
“I think that working together on issues like climate change and global stability during challenging times for the world is precisely what we should be doing,” Starmer said during talks with Xi at the Great Hall of the People in central Beijing.
The meeting marked the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years and comes after a prolonged period of strained ties over allegations of Chinese espionage in the UK, Beijing’s support for Russia in the Ukraine war, and China’s curbs on political freedoms in Hong Kong.
“China–UK relations experienced setbacks in previous years, which was not in the interests of either country,” Xi said, adding that both sides should strengthen dialogue and cooperation in the face of a “complex and ever-changing international situation” to help maintain world peace and stability.
Xi also appeared to acknowledge criticism faced by Starmer at home over renewed engagement with China despite national security and human rights concerns. The UK government recently approved plans for a large new Chinese embassy in London, easing a diplomatic irritant but drawing objections over potential surveillance and intimidation of dissidents.
“Good things often come with difficulties,” Xi said. “As long as it is the right thing to do in accordance with the fundamental interests of the country and its people, leaders will not shy away from difficulties.”
Starmer, who took office in July 2024, said Britain would safeguard national security while maintaining diplomatic dialogue and economic cooperation with China. “It has been far too long since a UK prime minister visited,” he said.
He noted that his Labour government was committed to making Britain “face outward again”, stressing that global events directly affect domestic issues such as prices and economic security. The UK continues to grapple with sluggish growth and a prolonged cost-of-living crisis.
More than 50 senior business leaders accompanied Starmer on the visit, along with representatives from cultural institutions, as the government seeks to expand trade and investment opportunities in China. The disruption to global trade under Trump has heightened the urgency for many countries to diversify economic partnerships.
Starmer is the fourth leader from a US-allied nation to visit Beijing this month, following leaders from South Korea, Canada and Finland. Germany’s chancellor is expected to visit next month. Earlier on Thursday, Starmer also met Zhao Leji, chairman of China’s National People’s Congress. Several bilateral agreements are expected to be signed later in the day. (AP) AMS
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