What to know about UK-China relations as Prime Minister Keir Starmer visits Beijing

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 6 min read 100% complete by By KEN MORITSUGU and JILL LAWLESSJanuary 28, 2026 at 09:53 AM

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UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting China starting Wednesday, January 21, 2026, with a delegation of corporate leaders. The aim of the trip is to improve relations between the UK and China amidst existing tensions with the United States. Starmer is scheduled to meet with President Xi Jinping during the visit. This occurs after the UK government approved a new, large Chinese Embassy in central London. The visit highlights the UK's balancing act between trade opportunities with China and national security concerns.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Indonesia 30% Jimmy Lai 30% Prabowo Subianto 40% Hong Kong ×240% United States 50% London ×450% Xi Jinping ×260% Beijing ×260% UK 70% China ×280% Keir Starmer ×690%

Keywords

uk-china relations 100% keir starmer 90% beijing 80% trade 70% national security 70% xi jinping 60% united states 60% diplomacy 50% chinese embassy 40%