Xi, Starmer Talks Signal Renewed UK, China Engagement
Starmer, who landed in the Chinese capital on Wednesday, said the purpose of the visit was to open up new opportunities that would bring tangible benefits to the United Kingdom.
The trip is notable as it is the first visit by a British prime minister to China since 2018. It takes place against a backdrop of frictions linked to US tariffs and broader strains among Western partners, including disagreements over US ambitions in Greenland.
Starmer is traveling with a delegation of roughly 60 figures drawn from business, academic, and cultural circles.
At the start of their meeting, Xi said ties between China and Britain had experienced "twists and turns" that had failed to serve the interests of either side, adding that China was ready to work toward a long-term strategic partnership.
Xi characterized the global environment as “turbulent and fluid,” stressing that increased communication between China and the UK was essential, whether it was “for the sake of world peace and stability or for our two countries’ economies and peoples."
He told Starmer that both nations needed to deepen cooperation to withstand geopolitical challenges.
Starmer said “China is a vital player on the global stage, and it is vital that we build a more sophisticated relationship."
“The current international situation is complex and intertwined. As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major global economies, China and the UK need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation,” he said.
He added that the UK is seeking a "more sophisticated relationship" with China.
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