China’s Xi Jinping, UK’s Kier Starmer agree to deepen economic ties

Al JazeeraCenterEN 3 min read 100% complete by Erin HaleJanuary 29, 2026 at 05:59 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

In January 2026, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, marking the first visit by a British leader in eight years. The leaders expressed a desire to deepen the strategic partnership between the UK and China, focusing on economic ties and collaboration on global issues like climate change. Starmer emphasized the need for a "mature" relationship with China, while Xi stressed the importance of dialogue and cooperation. Starmer's agenda included strengthening economic and security cooperation, aiming to thaw the diplomatic relationship after years of strain. The visit included meetings with both President Xi and Premier Li Qiang, followed by a trip to Shanghai.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Theresa May 30% Shanghai 30% Katrina Yu 35% Al Jazeera 35% Great Hall of the People 40% Li Qiang 50% Beijing ×360% UK ×380% China ×480% Xi Jinping ×390% Keir Starmer ×795%

Keywords

uk-china relations 90% economic ties 90% keir starmer 80% strategic partnership 80% xi jinping 80% diplomatic relationship 70% dialogue and cooperation 60% global stability 50% climate change 50%