The United Kingdom’s Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, has said that relations between the UK and China are in a “good, strong place” following a high-level meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday. The summit, lasting around 80 minutes at the Great Hall of the People, marked the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years and was described by both leaders as a step toward resetting diplomatic ties.
During the talks, Starmer stressed the need for a more “sophisticated relationship” between the two countries, one that allows for economic cooperation while acknowledging areas of disagreement. The meeting focused on trade, investment, and strategic issues, with both sides emphasizing the importance of dialogue and mutual respect in a rapidly shifting global context.
One notable development from the visit was China’s agreement to a visa-free travel scheme for UK citizens, allowing stays of up to 30 days, a move seen as a gesture to encourage tourism and business exchange. Beijing also committed to reducing tariffs on key UK exports, including halving duties on Scotch whisky, which is expected to boost trade significantly. In addition, British companies such as AstraZeneca announced major investment plans in China, signaling renewed confidence in bilateral commercial relations.
Starmer described the discussions as constructive and pragmatic, saying they showed that the UK and China can cooperate despite continuing differences on issues such as human rights and international security. Analysts said the visit represents a diplomatic reset after years of strained relations, with Starmer seeking to balance economic opportunities with national security concerns.
President Xi underscored the importance of long-term, stable dialogue, arguing that cooperation benefits both nations and can contribute to addressing global challenges, including climate change and economic stability. He noted that past “twists and turns” had not served either country’s interests and stressed the value of mutual respect and engagement.
The visit is widely seen as an attempt to restore trust and open a pathway for deeper UK-China ties, even as both governments acknowledge that difficult conversations on sensitive issues will continue. Starmer emphasized that the relationship should be based on engaging openly on collaboration as well as disagreement, a position he said is essential given China’s growing role on the world stage.
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