How Hong Kong can bring China and Britain closer: it’s not just finance

South China Morning PostEN 2 min read 100% complete by Brian Y. S. WongFebruary 8, 2026 at 01:30 PM

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently concluded a four-day visit to China, the first by a British Prime Minister in eight years, aiming to improve Sino-British relations. Starmer met with President Xi Jinping and a delegation of business leaders, securing market access valued at £2.3 billion and £2.2 billion in export deals. Several companies, including Chery and AstraZeneca, announced significant investments in China. Beijing agreed to extend 30-day visa-free access to British citizens and lower tariffs on British whisky. Starmer emphasized Hong Kong's role as a bridge between the UK and China, highlighting the city's unique ties. Both countries expressed interest in collaborating on global issues like climate change and artificial intelligence governance.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington 40% Liverpool 40% Yin Tongyue 50% Chery 50% United Kingdom ×260% AstraZeneca 60% Beijing ×260% Xi Jinping ×270% Hong Kong ×280% Britain ×480% China ×690% Keir Starmer ×490%

Keywords

sino-british relations 90% hong kong 80% keir starmer 70% china 70% united kingdom 70% bilateral relations 60% investment 50% trade 50% climate change 40% artificial intelligence 40%

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South China Morning Post

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sino-british relations hong kong keir starmer china united kingdom bilateral relations investment trade climate change artificial intelligence

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