British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping called on Thursday for a “comprehensive strategic partnership” to strengthen ties between their nations during a period of growing global uncertainty.
While neither leader mentioned U.S. President Donald Trump directly, his challenges to the post-Cold War international order were an underlying concern.
“Working together on issues like climate change and global stability during challenging times is precisely what we should be doing as we build this relationship,” Starmer told Xi in his opening remarks.
The meeting took place at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marking Starmer as the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years. Relations have been strained due to allegations of Chinese spying in the U.K., Beijing’s support for Russia in the Ukraine war, and the crackdown on freedoms in Hong Kong.
“China-U.K. relations experienced setbacks in previous years, which was not in the interests of either country,” Xi said. “In the current complex and ever-changing international situation, China and the U.K. need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation to maintain world peace and stability.”
Xi acknowledged the controversy surrounding Starmer’s outreach to China, including the U.K.’s recent approval of plans for a large Chinese embassy in London, despite concerns over espionage and intimidation of dissidents.
“Good things often come with difficulties. Leaders will not shy away from challenges if it is in the fundamental interests of their country and people,” Xi added.
Starmer, who became prime minister in July 2024, emphasized his commitment to protecting national security while expanding diplomatic dialogue and economic cooperation.
“It has been far too long since a U.K. prime minister visited China,” Starmer said. “Events abroad affect everything back home, from supermarket prices to national security.”
Over 50 top British business executives joined the trip, along with leaders of cultural organizations, as the prime minister seeks to boost trade and investment opportunities in China.
The meeting comes as global trade faces disruptions under Trump’s policies, prompting countries like Vietnam and the European Union to strengthen strategic partnerships and free trade agreements. Starmer is the fourth leader of a U.S. ally to visit Beijing this month, following leaders from South Korea, Canada, and Finland.
Earlier Thursday, Starmer also met Zhao Leji, chairman of China’s National People’s Congress. The two countries are expected to sign several agreements, including a joint effort to curb the trade of Chinese boat engines used in smuggling people across the English Channel, ensuring these products do not end up in criminal networks.
