Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in China for a three-day visit—the first by a British prime minister in eight years. Seeking to strengthen trading and cultural ties between the two nations after years of acrimony, Starmer faces significant criticism from political opponents regarding China’s national security risks and human rights violations under President Xi Jinping's leadership.
Starmer, who is set to meet President Xi on Thursday, insists the trip will be beneficial for the UK, asserting the necessity to maintain a 'strategic and consistent relationship' with the world’s second-largest economy. As he arrived in Beijing, a delegation of Chinese officials greeted him, presenting him with a bouquet of flowers amid visible union flags in Tiananmen Square.
Addressing the delegation of 60 British business leaders accompanying him, Starmer remarked, On this delegation, you're making history. You're part of the change that we're bringing about. We are resolute about being outward-looking, about taking opportunities, about building relationships...and always being absolutely focused on our national interest.
The complexities surrounding engagement with China are underscored by ongoing accusations against the nation for committing crimes against humanity in Xinjiang and severe human rights abuses affecting pro-democracy activists like Jimmy Lai. Additionally, the UK's MI5 agency has highlighted concerns regarding potential espionage activities associated with China.
While Starmer has not outlined specific issues he plans to raise during discussions with Chinese leaders, he expresses a commitment to addressing both disagreements and common ground during the talks. Critics from his own party and others urge a cautious approach towards China, particularly against the backdrop of the controversial plans for a Chinese mega-embassy in London.
This visit seeks not only to revitalize diplomatic relations with China following a tumultuous past but also to navigate the delicate balance of maintaining strong ties with the United States amidst rising trade tensions between the two superpowers. By acknowledging the need for dialogue despite concerns, Starmer aims to forge a more balanced future in Sino-British relations while addressing the challenges posed by China's ongoing conduct.
