Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has declared that "good progress" was made during high-level discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, focusing on key economic and travel issues between the two nations. The talks, held at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, marked the first visit by a UK prime minister to China since 2018 and aimed to reset bilateral relations after years of diplomatic strain.
Breakthroughs on Trade and Travel
Following the meeting, which lasted approximately one hour and twenty minutes, Sir Keir highlighted specific areas of advancement. He stated, "We made some really good progress on tariffs for whisky, on visa-free travel to China and on information exchange and co-operation on irregular migration, focusing particularly on small boats and engine parts." This represents a significant step forward in addressing long-standing trade barriers and facilitating easier movement for British citizens.
China's Positive Response
In its official readout of the meeting, the Chinese government expressed willingness to "actively consider" implementing unilateral visa-free entry for UK passport holders. This gesture underscores Beijing's intent to foster closer ties and enhance people-to-people exchanges. The Chinese statement emphasised that China does not "pose a threat" to other countries and advocated for a "long-term, stable and comprehensive strategic partnership" with the United Kingdom.
Addressing Sensitive Issues
The Prime Minister also engaged in what he described as a "respectful discussion" on contentious matters, including the imprisonment of Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai and the treatment of the Uighur minority. Sir Keir affirmed that raising these concerns was "part and parcel of the reason to engage," balancing opportunity with principled dialogue. Downing Street confirmed that both leaders agreed to maintain "frank and open dialogue on areas of disagreement" while enhancing cooperation on mutual interests.
Economic Opportunities and Delegation
Sir Keir underscored the "huge opportunities" in China that could benefit people in the UK, arriving with a delegation of 54 representatives from British businesses and cultural institutions. This move signals a concerted effort to deepen economic and cultural ties, leveraging the visit to promote practical benefits of engagement with Beijing. The Prime Minister regards such high-level meetings as crucial for Britain's national interest and global positioning.
Ceremonial Welcome and Broader Context
Prior to the meeting, Sir Keir received a ceremonial welcome at the Great Hall of the People, where a military band performed both national anthems and an honour guard of around 140 troops was inspected. This visit culminates months of preparation, representing the second meeting between the two leaders and a strategic attempt to navigate the "twists and turns" that have characterised recent UK-China relations. The Chinese readout reiterated the UK's unchanged policy on Taiwan and welcomed Hong Kong as a "unique and important bridge" between the nations.
