Keir Starmer to hold talks with Xi to bolster economic ties with China

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Pippa Crerar in BeijingJanuary 28, 2026 at 11:30 PM

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long article 4 min

Keir Starmer is meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on Thursday to strengthen economic ties between the UK and China. This marks the first visit by a UK leader to China in eight years. Starmer aims to bring stability to the relationship, emphasizing China's importance as the UK's third-largest trading partner. While seeking economic cooperation, Starmer stated he will address human rights concerns and implement safeguards against espionage. The visit occurs amid concerns about the reliability of the US as a partner and criticisms from UK politicians regarding China's human rights record and alleged attempts at interference. The UK government insists it will not be forced to choose between China and the US.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Great Hall of the People 30% Kemi Badenoch 30% Jimmy Lai 40% Emmanuel Macron 40% Donald Trump ×250% Li Qiang 50% Beijing ×260% United States ×470% UK ×780% Xi Jinping ×380% Keir Starmer ×490% China ×1090%

Keywords

economic ties 90% china 90% keir starmer 80% xi jinping 80% us relations 70% bilateral relations 60% trade relations 60% human rights 50% national security 50%