Beijing, Jan 29 (V7N) — UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has emphasized the importance of building a more sophisticated and long-term relationship with China, during his first visit by a British prime minister to the country since 2018.

Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday, highlighting the need for stable and comprehensive strategic cooperation between the two countries.

“China is a major player on the world stage, and it is very important for us to build a more sophisticated relationship,” Starmer said. “Our international partnership will help ensure security and prosperity. I have long been clear that the UK and China need a long-term, stable and comprehensive strategic partnership.”

President Xi welcomed the visit, stating that China is willing to build a stable and strategic partnership, adding that both sides can work together to create new momentum in bilateral relations.

Following the meeting, Starmer described the discussions as “very good and constructive”, noting that the talks had yielded tangible results.

The leaders discussed tariff reductions, visa-free travel, and cooperation on migration security, signaling a potential strengthening of trade and people-to-people ties amid global geopolitical uncertainties.

Starmer’s visit comes at a time of strained relations between China and Western allies, particularly due to the unpredictable foreign policy and trade threats from former US President Donald Trump, highlighting the UK’s intent to pursue an independent strategic partnership with China.

END/SMA/AJ