BEIJING, Jan 29 (ABC): British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday to advance bilateral relations and expand economic cooperation.
President Xi welcomed Starmer at the Great Hall of the People. The leaders held talks lasting about 40 minutes. They later shared lunch. Starmer was also scheduled to meet Premier Li Qiang the same day.
The meeting marked the first visit by a British prime minister to China since 2018.
Economic ties at the centre of talks
Starmer has made closer engagement with China a priority for his government. He hopes stronger ties will support growth and trade.
“China is a vital global partner,” Starmer said at the meeting. He added that Britain wants a practical and forward-looking relationship.
President Xi said relations between the two countries have changed over time. He said China remains ready to build a stable and long-term partnership with Britain.
Shift toward renewed engagement
Relations between Britain and China slowed in recent years. However, Starmer has signalled a return to dialogue since taking office.
He said Britain must stay connected to the world. According to him, global events affect daily life at home, including prices and jobs.
Analysts said the visit reflects a wider effort by European countries to deepen engagement with China.
Positive expectations from both sides
Kerry Brown, a professor of Chinese studies at King’s College London, said both sides wanted the meeting to show progress.
He said neither country sought public disagreement. Instead, they aimed to highlight cooperation and shared goals.
China described the visit as timely and constructive. Officials said Beijing welcomes stronger political trust and practical cooperation.
Business delegation highlights priorities
More than 50 British business leaders joined Starmer on the trip. Their presence underscored the economic focus of the visit.
Speaking to business representatives, Starmer called for a “mature” relationship with China. He said cooperation should deliver clear benefits for both countries.
The visit also included informal cultural exchanges. Officials said these moments help build mutual understanding.
Cooperation on shared challenges
Downing Street said Britain and China would work together on issues linked to illegal migration.
Officials said the effort will focus on disrupting criminal networks. British and Chinese teams will share information and coordinate actions.
The cooperation aims to prevent criminal misuse of legitimate supply chains.
Dialogue remains a priority
Starmer said he would raise important issues during meetings. At the same time, he stressed the value of open communication.
Observers noted that the visit’s structure showed clear priorities. Meetings with senior leaders and business groups took centre stage.
As global conditions change, both Britain and China appear keen to keep dialogue open. Officials on both sides said cooperation remains important.