Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in China for a three-day visit, asserting it will enhance UK prosperity and security despite warnings over Chinese espionage. The prime minister, accompanied by over 50 business, sports, and cultural delegates, seeks to improve bilateral ties after years of strained relations.
Speaking ahead of the trip, Starmer acknowledged the UK's approach to China had been inconsistent, but stressed engagement is in the national interest. He insisted economic cooperation would not compromise national security, though he faces pressure to address espionage and human rights issues during talks with President Xi Jinping on Thursday.
The visit follows the collapse of a trial of two men accused of spying for China and an MI5 warning about Chinese spies targeting MPs via LinkedIn. Some MPs urged cancellation over concerns for British national Jimmy Lai, imprisoned in Hong Kong.
Starmer's trip is the first by a UK prime minister since Theresa May in 2018. Relations cooled after Hong Kong's crackdown and Huawei's 5G ban. Labour has pursued a thaw, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves and other ministers visiting recently, and approval of a new Chinese embassy in London.
Downing Street stated Starmer will maintain 'guardrails' on national security, pledging not to trade economic cooperation for security. He will engage in frank dialogue on disagreements, including espionage and human rights.
