The prime minister had previously labeled Beijing as a “national security threat” yet has maintained an emphasis on cultivating business relations
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in an attempt to reset relations that have been marred by years of tension. This visit occurs amidst strains in UK-US relations and despite British intelligence agencies accusing China of espionage – a charge that Beijing has rejected.
Starmer’s trip represents the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years. During talks that lasted approximately 80 minutes, Starmer characterized the visit as “historic,” stating to Xi that he desires a “more sophisticated” relationship with China.
Starmer further stated that China is “a crucial player on the global stage” and that Britain requires ties that can “identify opportunities for collaboration” while maintaining “meaningful dialogue on areas of disagreement.”
Before departing, Starmer’s spokesperson stated that the government was “realistic” about the alleged threat China posed, but Britain couldn’t afford to “bury our heads in the sand.” Starmer also said the UK’s approach had shifted from “Golden Age to Ice Age,” adding, “whether we like it or not, China matters to the UK.”
Prior to the trip, the UK prime minister also promised to raise the issue of human rights with Xi, but did not mention it during on-camera statements.
Xi acknowledged that relations had been beset by “twists and turns that were not in our interests” and characterized deeper dialogue as “essential” in a “turbulent and fluid” world, stating that both sides must “rise above differences” and cooperate for “world peace and stability as well as the economies and people of our two countries.”
The two sides are expected to sign several agreements later in the visit, including visa-free travel and mutual recognition of professional qualifications, although significant breakthroughs are not expected.
Starmer traveled to Beijing despite claims from Britain’s intelligence agencies that China is targeting the UK government and lawmakers for spying – allegations Beijing has rejected – and amidst domestic criticism that he is trying to appease Xi. Starmer himself claimed in December that China posed “national security threats” to the UK, but stated that Britain would benefit from enhanced business ties with Beijing.
The visit also occurs amidst a cooling of traditionally close US-UK ties, as President Donald Trump has clashed with European nations over the future of Greenland. Western media have suggested that Starmer’s outreach to China could provoke Trump’s anger, given that the US president has repeatedly portrayed Beijing as America’s primary rival.