Starmer Confident in Dual Approach to China and US Relations
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that the United Kingdom does not face a binary choice between strengthening ties with China and maintaining its close relationship with the United States. As he prepares for a significant diplomatic visit to Beijing on Tuesday, Sir Keir emphasised the importance of a pragmatic and balanced foreign policy strategy.
Building Bridges After Conservative Era Freeze
The upcoming trip marks a concerted effort to thaw Sino-British relations, which had cooled considerably during the final years of the previous Conservative government. A Number 10 source highlighted that the current administration is adopting a "hard-headed, grown-up approach" to dealings with China, aiming to establish a "steady, consistent course" that benefits British interests without alienating key allies.
Trade Opportunities Amid Global Tensions
In an interview with Bloomberg prior to his departure, Sir Keir articulated his vision for engaging with China, the world's second-largest economy. He stated, "I'm often invited to simply choose between countries. I don't do that. We've got very close relations with the US, of course we want to and we will maintain that business, alongside security and defence. Equally, just sticking your head in the sand and ignoring China when it's the second biggest economy in the world and there are business opportunities wouldn't be sensible." This stance comes as the Prime Minister plans to be accompanied by business leaders, seeking to bolster trade relations following the approval of a new Chinese embassy in London.
Pressure to Address Human Rights Issues
However, the visit is not without its challenges. Sir Keir faces mounting pressure to raise sensitive topics with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, including:
- China's espionage activities
- The treatment of the Uighur minority
- The imprisonment of Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigner and British national
Lord Chris Patten, the last governor of Hong Kong, has been particularly vocal, urging the Prime Minister to address Mr Lai's case directly. He remarked, "If he doesn't raise the Jimmy Lai case, he's been pathetic." Lord Patten cautioned against a timid approach, advising Sir Keir to "say exactly what he thinks" without fear of offending Chinese officials.
Lessons from International Precedents
The diplomatic landscape is further complicated by recent events involving other nations. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently secured a tariff reduction deal with China, suggesting Beijing might be a more stable partner than Washington under President Donald Trump. However, this agreement prompted threats from Mr Trump of imposing 100% tariffs on Canada, illustrating the delicate balance required in international relations.
Calls for Prudence and Realism
Lord Patten, while supportive of efforts to improve UK-China relations, issued a stark warning about the realities of dealing with Beijing. He noted, "I don't think we should kid ourselves that if you're nice to China, they're more likely to obey the rules. They sign up to agreements and they break them whenever it's convenient." He advocated for a relationship akin to consuming dim sum "with a very long spoon," emphasising the need for vigilance and clear-eyed engagement.
Domestic and International Reactions
On the home front, former Conservative leader Sir Iain Duncan Smith, who has been sanctioned by China, called for the trip to be cancelled in protest. Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has previously condemned China's treatment of Jimmy Lai, demanding his "immediate release" after his conviction on sedition and conspiracy charges. As Sir Keir navigates these complex dynamics, his ability to foster trade while upholding British values will be closely scrutinised by both domestic critics and international observers.
