Chinese President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer have pledged to strengthen bilateral relations, emphasizing dialogue and cooperation despite growing geopolitical challenges.
The two leaders met on Thursday (29 January) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, where President Xi said the current international situation is complex and multi-layered. As permanent members of the UN Security Council and major global economic powers, Xi said, China and the United Kingdom need to enhance communication and cooperation.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of closer ties to address global uncertainties. Starmer’s visit marks the first trip to China by a British prime minister since 2018 and comes amid efforts by several Western leaders to recalibrate relations with Beijing against a backdrop of uncertainty in US policy.
In the ornate setting of the Great Hall of the People, Starmer described China as “a significant player on the world stage.” He said it was essential to build a mature relationship that allows both countries to identify areas of cooperation while maintaining meaningful dialogue on issues where they disagree.
President Xi echoed the need for a long-term perspective, saying stronger UK–China relations are crucial for maintaining global peace and stability, improving economic cooperation, and enhancing the well-being of people in both countries. He acknowledged that challenges remain but said cooperation would open a “new chapter” in bilateral relations.
“Good outcomes often come with difficult challenges,” Xi said, adding that leadership requires the courage to face those challenges rather than avoid them.
Starmer will remain in China until Saturday. Following Thursday’s meeting, the two leaders were scheduled to attend a working lunch together. Earlier in the day, Starmer met Zhao Leji, China’s third-ranking leader, and later was due to hold talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang.
Zhao said UK–China relations are moving in the right direction, while Starmer described the visit as an opportunity to find positive ways to work together. Downing Street said the two countries are set to sign a cooperation agreement targeting supply chains used by people smugglers.
Irregular migration is a sensitive issue for Starmer, who has pledged tougher action against human traffickers and efforts to reduce migration flows.
On Friday (30 January), Starmer is scheduled to visit Shanghai, China’s financial hub, before traveling briefly to Japan for talks with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
