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Starmer and Xi Reset UK-China Ties with Trade, Investment, and Security Deals
UK PM Starmer meets President Xi in Beijing, pledging closer trade, tech, and security cooperation. Visa-free travel, lower tariffs, and a $15B AstraZeneca investment mark a new chapter in UK-China relations.
ND
by News Desk
2026-01-29
Starmer and Xi Reset UK-China Ties with Trade, Investment, and Security Deals

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping have hailed a reset in UK-China relations, announcing a series of trade, investment, and security initiatives during Starmer’s first visit to China in eight years.

The summit, held at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, focused on fostering a “more sophisticated relationship” that balances economic collaboration with frank dialogue on areas of disagreement. Starmer emphasized the importance of stronger market access, lower tariffs, and investment opportunities, while Xi highlighted China’s readiness for a long-term partnership following years of strained relations.

Key Outcomes of the Visit

  • Visa and Travel: Britons will now enjoy 30 days of visa-free travel to China.
  • Trade and Investment: Starmer welcomed a $15 billion investment by UK pharmaceutical giant AstraZeneca into China, aimed at pioneering new medicines. Discussions also included reducing Chinese tariffs on British whisky.
  • Security Cooperation: Both countries agreed to jointly combat people-smuggling gangs, including intelligence sharing and reducing the use of Chinese-made engines for small boats transporting migrants to Britain.

Starmer, who was accompanied by over 50 business leaders, described his discussions with Xi as “warm and constructive.” The leaders even exchanged gifts reflecting cultural and sporting connections, including a Manchester United football gifted to Xi, highlighting shared interests in soccer.

Context and Challenges
The visit comes amid growing uncertainty in Western diplomacy, particularly due to unpredictable U.S. policies under President Donald Trump. Starmer’s engagement contrasts with previous Conservative governments, which had curtailed some Chinese investments over security concerns and criticized China’s crackdown on political freedoms in Hong Kong.

Despite criticism from some UK politicians about human rights and espionage risks, Starmer emphasized that improved relations would allow Britain to pursue economic growth while maintaining “frank dialogue” on disagreements, including the case of Hong Kong media tycoon and British citizen Jimmy Lai.

Looking Ahead
Starmer’s China visit aims to bolster the UK’s global economic position while addressing security challenges and migration issues. Officials said the reset marks a new phase in bilateral relations that balances pragmatism with principled engagement.
Tagged:

XiJinping

KeirStarmer

TradeAndInvestment

UKChinaRelations
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