British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is on a monumental trip to China to repair the UK’s relationship with China, promote the British economy, and navigate increasing pressure imposed by US President Donald Trump.
Starmer is the first prime minister to visit China since 2018, signalling that both countries will be taking tentative steps to reset their relationship following years of strain over issues such as espionage, human rights, and the Chinese government’s approach to Russia and Hong Kong. On the way there Night, the Prime Minister called himself “the British pragmatic,” pointing out that the UK doesn’t have to choose between Washington & Beijing.
Trade first, but trade is not all that matters
Starmer is accompanied by approximately 60 representatives from the UK business and cultural sectors including major corporate names such as HSBC, Jaguar Land Rover, GSK and British Airways. Starmer’s visit is principally focused on pursuing economic recovery at home. Since entering into power in 2024, Starmer’s government has had difficulty achieving promised measurable outcomes. China is seen as an enormous and presently under-utilized marketplace for UK service providers.
China exported over $85 billion worth of goods to the United Kingdom in 2021, and imported slightly less than $20 billion worth of goods from the United Kingdom. However, Britain runs a surplus in service provision to China and will represent significant growth for the future; however, Starmer will focus mostly on growing finance, consulting, and healthcare services, and also will provide care services for the elderly population of China.
Starmer said it is in Britain’s national interest to engage with China and made clear that, while differences remain, his government will address them firmly.
A ‘more sophisticated’ relationship
The British leader forged stronger ties with the Chinese leader, Xi Jinping, stating, “A long-lasting, steady and broad strategic partnership must be established” between the two countries. President Xi agreed that the two countries should “bring new energy” to their relationship and support multilateral cooperation as anti-trade actions rise throughout the globe.
Significant advancements reported on British whiskey tariffs and possible visa-free travel agreements and possible cooperation in combating irregular migration. Starmer referred to the discussions as “producing real outcomes” while stating the discussions were “constructive.”
Starmer has reached out to China during a period when President Donald Trump is disrupting trade globally with tariffs and volatile diplomatic relationships. Both the UK and China are looking to expand their export markets as President Trump is putting pressure on allies to limit their trade partnerships with China.
US-British relations remain solid despite increased tensions over the UK decision to transfer the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, despite President Trump’s disapproval (although US intelligence supports the deal). Starmer maintains UK-US relations are “exceptionally strong.”
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Security, espionage and Hong Kong
The reset with China holds a host of dangers. The United Kingdom has prevented Chinese involvement in crucial telecommunications and nuclear energy infrastructure projects, while British intelligence agencies still express concerns about espionage. Furthermore, the UK has agreed to build China a large new embassy in London: something that has caused considerable backlash within the UK.
Human rights remain a point of contention, especially Hong Kong. Sir Keir has confirmed that he raised issues with the UK Government regarding the imprisonment of British citizen Jimmy Lai, and allegations of abuse of Uyghur people. He referred to this discussion being “respectful but direct.”
The visit by Sir Keir Starmer reflects an overarching trend amongst the US allies who are slowly re-engaging with China, but at the same time trying to avoid significant ruptures with the US. Balance is the main challenge for these countries.
China presents opportunities for advancement and development. However, making a significant error in judgement can lead to catastrophic political, economic or strategic consequences. Therefore, as Sir Keir walks the diplomatic tightrope, both Beijing and Washington remain vigilant.
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