Beijing, Jan 29, 2026 — British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer held high-level talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday, marking a significant diplomatic moment as the United Kingdom seeks to reset relations with Beijing after years of tension and limited engagement.
The meeting, held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, is the first visit by a UK prime minister to China in nearly a decade. Both leaders described the talks as “constructive” and signaled a willingness to rebuild dialogue on trade, climate cooperation, and global security, while acknowledging persistent disagreements over human rights and strategic influence.
Downing Street said Starmer raised issues including market access for British firms, the protection of intellectual property, and concerns over regional security. Chinese officials, meanwhile, emphasized economic cooperation and urged Britain to adopt what they described as a “pragmatic and independent” approach toward China.
The visit comes at a time when the UK government is attempting to reposition itself globally following years of geopolitical uncertainty, trade realignments, and shifting alliances. Starmer’s administration has argued that engagement with China is necessary for economic stability, even as it maintains firm positions on democratic values.
“Our goal is not confrontation, nor is it silence,” Starmer said in remarks following the meeting. “It is serious, structured dialogue that reflects the realities of today’s world.”
China remains one of the UK’s largest trading partners outside Europe, but bilateral ties have cooled sharply in recent years amid disputes over Hong Kong, cybersecurity concerns, and technology restrictions. British officials said the talks focused on reopening communication channels rather than announcing immediate policy changes.
The meeting is being closely watched by Western allies, particularly the United States, which has urged coordination among partners when dealing with Beijing. UK officials stressed that the visit does not represent a shift away from transatlantic alliances.
Analysts say the challenge for London will be balancing economic engagement with security concerns. “This is about stabilisation, not alignment,” said one senior UK official familiar with the discussions.
Starmer is expected to continue meetings with Chinese economic leaders and business representatives before returning to London later this week.
