On January 29, 2026, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping convened in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to discuss establishing a comprehensive strategic partnership aimed at strengthening ties between the United Kingdom and China amidst increasing global uncertainty. The meeting is significant as it marks the first visit to China by a British prime minister in eight years, reflecting a desire to mend relations that have been strained by multiple issues over recent years.
During their discussion, neither leader directly referenced former U.S. President Donald Trump, yet his critiques of the post-Cold War global order lingered in the backdrop of their talks. In his opening remarks, Starmer emphasized the importance of collaboration on vital issues such as climate change and global stability during turbulent times, underscoring a proactive approach to international engagement.
The dialogue took place as the U.K. and China seek to improve their relationship, which has faced serious challenges due to allegations of Chinese spying in Britain. Compounding the deterioration in relations are China’s support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict and the ongoing repression of freedoms in Hong Kong, a former British territory that was handed back to China in 1997. Starmer's visit follows a period of significant diplomatic strain, which both leaders acknowledged during the meeting.
President Xi recognized the setbacks in China-U.K. relations, stating that both nations need to enhance dialogue and cooperation to uphold world peace and stability. He offered an understanding of the challenges Starmer has faced for engaging with China, particularly in light of national security and human rights concerns. The U.K. recently moved to bolster relations by approving plans for a large Chinese Embassy in London, which has raised fears among critics that it could facilitate Chinese espionage and the intimidation of dissidents.
Starmer, who took office in July 2024, reiterated his commitment to safeguarding national security while maintaining diplomatic and economic ties with China. He expressed that the absence of a British prime minister's visit to China for such a lengthy period was regrettable and promised to reestablish Britain’s global engagement. In his remarks, Starmer highlighted that global events have direct implications on domestic issues, including the cost of living crisis faced by many households in the U.K.
The Prime Minister is accompanied by over 50 top business executives and cultural leaders during this visit, aimed at expanding opportunities for British companies in the Chinese market. The backdrop of rising global economic challenges has made it imperative for many governments, including the U.K., to prioritize trade and investment opportunities. Starmer’s visit aligns with a series of diplomatic engagements, as he is the fourth leader of a U.S. ally to meet with Xi in recent weeks, following visits from leaders of South Korea, Canada, and Finland, with the German Chancellor expected to follow suit next month.
Earlier on the same day, Starmer met with Zhao Leji, the chairman of the National People’s Congress in China. The leaders of the U.K. and China anticipate signing several agreements later in the day, marking a potential turning point in their bilateral relations.
