UK leader seeks "sophisticated relationship" with China during visit

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on January 29, signalling a reset in ties between London and Beijing and aiming to boost economic growth and security.

On the most important day of his four-day visit — the first by a British prime minister in eight years — Starmer held an 80-minute summit with Xi at the Great Hall of the People, followed by a joint lunch, Caliber.Az reports via British media. He is also scheduled to meet Premier Li Qiang later in the visit.

Starmer, whose Labour government has faced challenges in delivering promised economic growth, has prioritised improving relations with China despite ongoing concerns over espionage and human rights.

"China is a vital player on the global stage, and it's vital that we build a more sophisticated relationship where we can identify opportunities to collaborate, but of course, also allow a meaningful dialogue on areas where we disagree," Starmer told Xi at the start of their meeting.

Xi acknowledged the ups and downs in relations, noting that past tensions had not served either country. "We can deliver a result that can withstand the test of history," he said, flanked by his top ministers.

Starmer’s visit comes amid a broader wave of Western diplomacy with Beijing, as countries hedge against unpredictability from the United States under President Donald Trump. Trump’s trade threats and interest in Greenland have frustrated long-standing allies, including Britain.

The visit follows Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent trip, which produced an economic deal with China aimed at reducing trade barriers.

Kerry Brown, professor of Chinese studies at King’s College London, expects a number of announcements on agreements between Britain and China to highlight improvements in the bilateral relationship. Starmer is travelling with more than 50 business leaders, signalling a focus on economic opportunities.

By Aghakazim Guliyev