Xi Meets UK PM Starmer in Beijing, Calls China–UK Ties “Vital”
Starmer, who arrived in the Chinese capital a day earlier, said the purpose of his visit was to open up new opportunities that would deliver tangible benefits for Britain.
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 rising global trade frictions linked to US tariffs, as well as growing disagreements among Western allies over a range of geopolitical issues, including Washington’s ambitions regarding Greenland.
Accompanying Starmer is a delegation of roughly 60 representatives from the business community, academic institutions, and cultural organizations, underscoring the UK’s interest in broad-based engagement with China.
At the start of the meeting, Xi acknowledged that ties between Beijing and London have experienced "twists and turns," noting that such instability has not benefited either side. He said China is prepared to work toward a long-term strategic partnership with the UK.
Describing the global situation as “turbulent and fluid,” Xi emphasized the need for stronger communication between the two countries, saying greater engagement was essential, whether it was “for the sake of world peace and stability or for our two countries’ economies and peoples."
He also told Starmer that closer cooperation would help both nations navigate growing geopolitical pressures and external challenges.
Seeking to address security concerns, Xi stressed, "China will never pose a threat to other countries no matter how it grows and develops," adding, "China has never initiated a war, nor occupied an inch of foreign land."
According to official statements, both sides "agreed to develop a long-term, stable, comprehensive strategic partnership," signaling a shared intention to place relations on a more predictable and forward-looking footing.
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