UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has called for a more “sophisticated” relationship with China during a high-profile meeting with President Xi Jinping in Beijing, marking the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years.
The two leaders met at the Great Hall of the People on the first full day of Starmer’s trip, as both governments signaled a desire to move past years of strained relations. Starmer described China as a vital global player and emphasized the importance of cooperation alongside open dialogue on areas of disagreement.
Speaking to the BBC ahead of a visit to the Forbidden City, the prime minister confirmed that he raised human rights concerns, including the case of jailed Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai. He said engagement with China was “not a choice but a necessity,” while stressing that differences must be addressed honestly.
In his opening remarks, President Xi acknowledged that UK-China relations had experienced “twists and turns” in recent years that did not serve either country’s interests. He said China was ready to develop a long-term, consistent, and comprehensive strategic partnership with the United Kingdom, one that would benefit both nations and the wider world.
Chinese officials had already highlighted Britain’s commitment to free trade and multilateral institutions such as the United Nations, drawing a contrast with the more confrontational approach taken by the Trump administration. Analysts say this reflects Beijing’s attempt to identify common ground with like-minded countries.
Following the meeting, Starmer struck an optimistic tone, revealing progress on several practical issues. These include discussions on reducing tariffs on whisky, expanding visa-free travel, improving information sharing on small-boat crossings, and strengthening dialogue on security and defense.
While business and cultural ties dominate the visit, sensitive topics remain unavoidable. Western governments are widely expected to raise concerns over China’s human rights record, including allegations of abuses in Xinjiang. Observers note that Beijing anticipates such criticism and views it as part of diplomatic engagement rather than an obstacle.
Former MI6 director of operations and intelligence Nigel Inkster said China poses ongoing challenges to the UK, particularly in cyber security and industrial espionage. However, he described the situation as manageable, provided Britain remains firm in defending its values and responds robustly when its interests are threatened.
The visit is also being closely watched for its economic significance. A large UK business delegation has joined the trip, with a series of deals and memorandums of understanding expected to be announced. Sectors likely to benefit include electric vehicles, agriculture, education, pharmaceuticals, and technology.
After meetings in Beijing, Starmer is set to travel to Shanghai, China’s financial hub, where further talks with political leaders and business representatives are planned. With several days of engagements still ahead, officials say the visit represents a broader effort to “defrost” relations between London and Beijing and chart a more pragmatic path forward.