Beijing, Jan. 29 (GeokHub) Britain and China on Thursday signaled a thaw in long-strained relations after Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Xi Jinping agreed to deepen cooperation on trade, investment and technology, framing the move as mutually beneficial at a time of growing global uncertainty.
Starmer, visiting China for the first time since taking office, called for a “more sophisticated relationship” between London and Beijing, urging improved market access, reduced tariffs and stronger investment ties. The talks come as Western allies reassess their global strategies amid unpredictable shifts in U.S. foreign and trade policy.
Trade Concessions and Major Investment
China announced visa-free travel for British citizens for up to 30 days and said it would cut tariffs on whisky imports by half. Separately, pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca revealed plans to invest $15 billion in China, underscoring the commercial stakes behind the diplomatic reset.
Starmer and Xi spent several hours together in formal meetings and over lunch, discussing trade, security, the war in Ukraine, and cultural ties. British officials said the discussions were constructive and wide-ranging.
Starmer Prioritizes Economic Growth
Boosting economic growth has been a central focus for Starmer’s Labour government, which has struggled to meet early expectations at home. Improving relations with the world’s second-largest economy has been identified as a key pillar of that strategy.
The prime minister cited AstraZeneca’s expansion as an example of how closer engagement could benefit both sides, while stressing that stronger ties would also allow for candid discussions where disagreements exist.
“China is a vital global player,” Starmer said, adding that cooperation should go hand in hand with open dialogue on sensitive issues.
Xi, for his part, said China was ready to build a long-term partnership with Britain after years of tensions that had served neither side’s interests.
Security Concerns and Political Sensitivities
The visit has drawn criticism from opposition politicians and some Western lawmakers, who argue that China poses security risks and has a poor human rights record. British security agencies have previously warned of Chinese espionage, allegations Beijing denies.
Starmer confirmed he raised the case of a prominent Hong Kong media figure and British citizen during talks, describing the discussion as respectful but frank.
Despite lingering concerns, British officials said the relationship is now on firmer footing than in recent years, after a period in which London restricted some Chinese investments and criticized Beijing’s actions in Hong Kong.
Cooperation on People Smuggling
Beyond trade, Britain and China agreed to cooperate against people-smuggling networks, focusing on disrupting supply chains for small boats used in illegal Channel crossings.
Officials said intelligence sharing and engagement with Chinese manufacturers would aim to prevent legitimate exports from being exploited by organized crime.
