Xi Urges Consistent UK-China Ties as Starmer Visits Beijing
29th Jan. 2026
Chinese President Xi Jinping has said that the United Kingdom and China would benefit from a more “consistent” relationship. The comment came during his meeting with the Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing. It is the first visit by any British leader to China in eight years. Speaking at the Great Hall of the People, Xi acknowledged that bilateral ties had faced many “twists and turns” in the past. However, he stressed that cooperation was essential in a turbulent global environment.
Ahead of their talks, Xi said that leaders should “rise above differences” and suggested that both men would “stand the test of history” if they want to focus on long-term interests. The meeting comes amid heightened global tensions, which include Russia’s war in Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and renewed uncertainty in international politics.
Starmer said that he wants to bring “stability and clarity” to relations with Beijing. He further argued that this reset was necessary after years of policy “inconsistency” under previous Conservative governments.
Xi calls for Stability in UK-China Ties Amid Global Uncertainty
In his opening remarks, Xi framed the meeting as a significant not only for bilateral ties but also for global stability. He said that the UK-China relationship had not always served the interests of either country. Nevertheless, he added that dialogue was now “imperative.”
“As long as it is the right thing that serves the fundamental interests of the country and the people, then as leaders we should not shy away from difficulties and we should press ahead,” Xi said. He also quoted a Chinese proverb and urged leaders to “range far your eye over long distances”.
Against the backdrop of international conflict and geopolitical rivalry, Xi argued that cooperation between London and Beijing was necessary “for the sake of world peace and stability”. Meanwhile, the Chinese president noted that improved engagement could also benefit both economies and peoples. The two leaders later held private talks that lasted about one hour and 20 minutes. It was almost double the scheduled time, which was “Constructive” by officials.
Starmer Seeks ‘More Sophisticated’ Relationship between UK & China
For his part, Starmer said that China is a “vital player on the global stage.” He also noted that Britain needed a “more sophisticated” approach to its relationship with Beijing. Keir further stressed that his visit was guided by domestic priorities, which include economic stability and security at home.
“It is with the British people in mind that I am here today,” Starmer said. “Events abroad affect everything that happens back in our home countries, from prices on the supermarket shelves to how secure we feel.”
However, the visit has drawn criticism in the UK. There has been cross-party concern over alleged Chinese espionage activities and Beijing’s human rights record. As a precaution, members of the British delegation have been using burner phones during the trip. Xi appeared to push back indirectly at critics. This included Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, who has questioned the timing and purpose of the visit.
UK-China Relations and Labour’s Legacy for Future Ties
Xi also praised past Labour governments under Tony Blair and Gordon Brown. He said that they had made “important contributions” to the development of UK-China relations. He further added that China was ready to pursue a “long-term and consistent strategic partnership” with Britain.
Earlier in the day, Starmer met Zhao Leji, chair of China’s National People’s Congress, who said that it was “significant” to develop relations well amid a “changing and turbulent international landscape”. Zhao emphasized that ties were now on “the correct track to improvement”. Starmer described the visit as historic. During this time, he said that he hoped for “a very productive few days” of talks on global security, economic growth, and shared challenges such as climate change.
Web Resources on the Starmer-Xi Jinping Meeting
1. Reuters.com: UK’s Starmer tells Xi he wants ‘sophisticated’ ties with China
2. BBC.com: Starmer says UK seeking ‘more sophisticated relationship’ with China in talks with Xi
3. Aljazeera.com: China’s Xi Jinping, UK’s Kier Starmer agree to deepen economic ties
4. CNBC.com: China and the UK are attempting to reset their relationship