Starmer hopes his China trip will begin the thaw after recent ice age

Keir Starmer recently visited Beijing, marking the first UK Prime Ministerial visit to China since 2018. The trip aimed to improve relations after a period of tension, addressing security concerns and trade challenges. Starmer engaged in extensive talks with President Xi Jinping, securing agreements intended to boost British business access to the Chinese market. These included a visa waiver, tariff cuts on whisky, and investment commitments. While some criticized the immediate impact of the visit, British officials emphasized the importance of establishing a more sophisticated relationship with China and securing high-level buy-in for future economic opportunities. The UK's approval of a new Chinese embassy in London is believed to have facilitated the visit.

In 2026, despite not softening its stance on human rights, trade, or security concerns, China is experiencing closer ties with U.S. allies. This shift follows a period where China intensified economic pressure on countries cooperating with the U.S., betting they would eventually seek closer relations with Beijing as a hedge. European and Canadian leaders are now visiting China to strengthen economic ties, even as contentious issues remain unresolved. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently visited China, prioritizing business deals while downplaying human rights concerns. Analysts suggest China's strategy of increasing pressure on U.S. allies is proving successful, prompting them to accommodate Beijing's interests.

Following UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's business-focused trip to Beijing, Donald Trump warned the UK against pursuing deals with China, calling it "very dangerous." Starmer's visit included meetings with Chinese leader Xi Jinping and a delegation of British business and cultural representatives. The purpose of the trip was to build stronger relationships with Beijing. The Prime Minister also visited Yuyuan Garden, a popular tourist destination in Shanghai. Meanwhile, back in the UK, political parties are preparing for a byelection in Gorton and Denton, seen as a referendum on Starmer's leadership.

In January 2026, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited China with a delegation of business and cultural figures, signaling a potential thaw in previously strained relations. Starmer received a warm welcome from Chinese President Xi Jinping. The visit's purpose was to strengthen ties between the two nations. However, the visit drew criticism from US President Donald Trump, who labeled it "dangerous." The reasons behind Trump's disapproval and the overall significance of Starmer's trip were discussed on Al Jazeera's Inside Story, featuring experts Will Hutton, Andy Mok, and Steve Tsang.

Following a meeting between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping, China has lifted sanctions on British lawmakers and peers. The sanctions, imposed in 2021 in response to UK sanctions over alleged human rights violations in Xinjiang, had restricted travel and other activities. Starmer raised the issue during his visit to China, and Xi Jinping reportedly confirmed that all parliamentarians are now welcome to visit. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman confirmed the agreement to resume normal exchanges between the two countries' legislative bodies, aiming to strengthen understanding and mutual trust. This move facilitates personnel exchanges between the UK and China.

President Trump warned Britain and Canada against increasing trade with China, citing it as "dangerous" amid rising tensions with the United States. His comments came after the leaders of both countries made recent visits to Beijing to strengthen economic ties. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's trip marked the first visit by a British leader to China since 2018, while Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's visit resulted in agreements to lower tariffs on certain goods. Trump suggested Canada would have to give up playing ice hockey if it wanted to deal with China. These visits reflect efforts by some U.S. allies to diversify their trading relationships and reduce reliance on the United States, particularly as Trump has strained relations with traditional allies.

The article discusses a perceived shift in global sentiment towards the United States under President Trump, suggesting a growing desire among nations to reduce reliance on the U.S. Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted the need for a "third path" and "de-risking" strategies, prompting Canada to pursue trade and security deals with countries like the EU, India, and China. The EU has also recently finalized trade agreements with India, Mercosur, and others, aiming to diversify its export markets. Furthermore, the UK Prime Minister recently visited China, signaling a potential shift in UK foreign policy. These actions suggest a collective effort by various countries to hedge against dependence on the U.S. market and navigate a changing global order.

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in China, urging a "stable" partnership amid global complexities. Starmer's visit, the first by a British Prime Minister since 2018, aims to repair relations that deteriorated under the Conservative Party despite earlier efforts to foster closer ties. Xi stated China's willingness to work with the UK to foster a long-term comprehensive strategic partnership. Starmer emphasized the importance of the trading relationship and Britain's desire to advance ties for global growth and stability, acknowledging China as a vital global player. The four-day visit signifies an effort to re-engage and strengthen dialogue between the two nations.

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.

During the first visit by a British Prime Minister to China in eight years, Xi Jinping met with Keir Starmer in Beijing, expressing hope for a more consistent UK-China relationship despite past "twists and turns." Xi urged both countries to "rise above differences," while Starmer aimed to bring "stability and clarity" to bilateral relations. Following the meeting, Starmer announced that the relationship was in a "good, strong place" and highlighted agreements including a Chinese visa waiver for British tourists and closer economic cooperation, such as AstraZeneca's $15bn investment. Discussions also covered the Ukraine conflict, with both leaders sharing the goal of ending the war, and security concerns. The UK delegation raised the case of Jimmy Lai and sanctions on British MPs.

Keir Starmer is the first British Prime Minister to visit China since 2018, aiming to establish a "more sophisticated" and stable relationship with Beijing. Chinese leader Xi Jinping acknowledged past "twists and turns" in the UK-China relationship, expressing interest in a more consistent approach. Starmer's visit comes amid a period of global instability and follows similar trips by other Western leaders. The UK recognizes China's significant role as the world's second-largest economy and a key player in technology and geopolitics. The goal of the visit is to explore opportunities and address risks in resetting the UK's relationship with China.

In January 2026, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing to strengthen business ties between the two countries. Starmer's visit, the first by a British leader since 2018, included a delegation of business executives from various sectors. Starmer emphasized the economic opportunities of engaging with China, marking a shift from previous British administrations that prioritized security and human rights concerns. The meeting occurs amidst strained relations between the United States and its European allies, with Starmer aiming to improve relations with China without provoking President Trump. Xi Jinping views Starmer's visit as evidence of China's continued importance on the global stage.

Mark Carney, in a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, argued that globalization is undergoing a "rupture," not a transition. He stated that great powers are using economic integration as leverage and that trade is being subordinated to political exigencies. Carney urged middle-sized countries to diversify internationally to reduce coercion, emphasizing that it is essential for honest foreign policy. He noted that the primacy of national security and geopolitics is reshaping the global economy and markets. Carney highlighted the importance of recognizing economic fragmentation and geopolitical realignments, which investors often fail to adequately assess. He believes it would be a mistake to mourn the demise of the rules-based order.

Canada and South Korea have reached an agreement to explore bringing Korean automotive manufacturing to Canada. The deal, announced on Thursday, is Prime Minister Mark Carney's latest effort to diversify Canada's trade relationships away from the United States, which has imposed tariffs on Canadian vehicles. These tariffs, along with the Trump administration's policies, have led U.S. automakers to reduce their presence in Canada. Carney has also sought closer trade ties with China, allowing a limited number of Chinese electric vehicles into Canada at a reduced tariff rate. The Canadian government hopes the agreement with South Korea will bolster its auto sector and create jobs.

AstraZeneca will invest $15 billion (£11 billion) in China by 2030 to expand its medicines manufacturing, research, and development. The investment includes a $2.5 billion research hub in Beijing and expansion of existing manufacturing facilities across multiple cities. This decision follows AstraZeneca's recent scaling back of expansion plans in the UK, including pausing a £200m expansion in Cambridge and abandoning a £450m investment in Speke. The company aims to increase its workforce in China from 17,000 to over 20,000 and will focus on developing breakthrough treatments like cell therapy and radioconjugates. AstraZeneca's CEO stated that China has become a critical contributor to scientific innovation and global public health.

AstraZeneca announced a US$15 billion investment plan in China through 2030, supporting medicine manufacturing and research and development. The announcement coincided with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Beijing, aimed at strengthening trade ties between the UK and China. Starmer stated that AstraZeneca's expansion would support UK jobs and the life sciences sector. The four-day trip is the first visit by a British Prime Minister to China in eight years, as London seeks closer economic cooperation with Beijing. During the visit, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for a "new chapter" in Sino-UK relations, urging deeper dialogue and cooperation.

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.

Keir Starmer's trip to China signals a shift in UK foreign policy, prioritizing British interests in a world of both strategic rivalry and economic interdependence. Starmer declared the UK will no longer be a passive participant in a contest defined by the US and China, moving away from automatically aligning with Washington's China policy. The UK aims to balance its close relationship with the US, particularly in security, with the economic opportunities presented by China's position as the world's second-largest economy. This new approach seeks to create room for independent maneuver, separating areas of alignment with the US from those where the UK will pursue its own course. The visit is an attempt to re-open economic and political channels with Beijing.

Chinese leaders have welcomed a flurry of visits from world leaders to Beijing over the past two months, including Sir Keir Starmer, the first British prime minister to visit China in eight years. The UK has recently approved plans for a Chinese mega-embassy in London, which had raised concerns about the timing of the visit. Despite this, both sides are now ready to engage in talks and new deals worth boosting the UK's economy are on the line. This is part of a charm offensive by China aimed at presenting itself as a stable and predictable partner, contrasting with the US. The move follows previous visits from leaders such as Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who announced a "new strategic partnership" with China. China views these visits as part of a larger effort to strengthen its relationships with key nations.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has begun a three-day visit to China, the first by a British prime minister in eight years. Starmer aims to strengthen trade and cultural ties after a period of strained relations. He will meet with President Xi Jinping to discuss areas of agreement and disagreement. The visit comes amid concerns about China's human rights record and espionage activities in the UK. Starmer insists the trip will benefit the UK and that maintaining a strategic relationship with the world's second-largest economy is important. He also stated that the UK will not be forced to choose between China and the US.

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.

Keir Starmer is in Beijing to improve UK-China relations, promising a "clear-eyed and realistic" approach to national security concerns. This visit, the first by a UK leader in eight years, aims to establish a consistent relationship with China, recognizing its economic importance to the UK. Starmer plans to meet with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang to discuss economic ties while addressing disagreements like human rights abuses. Despite criticism over China's human rights record and security threats, Starmer argues that engaging with the world's second-largest economy is in the UK's national interest. He emphasizes that economic opportunities will not overshadow national security concerns.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney affirmed that he stood by his Davos speech, telling President Trump directly and rejecting claims he walked back his statements. Carney's remarks followed criticism of economic coercion by larger nations, made at the World Economic Forum in Davos, which were interpreted as a rebuke of Trump's trade policies. He emphasized that Canada understood the shift in US trade policy and was actively diversifying its trade relationships, pursuing a dozen new deals. This comes after Trump threatened tariffs on Canadian goods if Canada pursued a trade deal with China, although Carney stated Canada is not seeking a comprehensive agreement with Beijing. Carney's comments were made to reporters in Ottawa, following US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent's assertion that Carney had softened his stance after speaking with Trump.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney refuted claims that he backtracked on his Davos speech criticizing unconstrained superpowers during a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump. Carney confirmed the call took place after a U.S. Treasury Secretary stated that Carney had "aggressively" walked back his remarks. Carney asserted that he stands by his Davos speech, where he indirectly criticized Trump's policies, and that he had a "very good conversation" with the U.S. President on various topics, including trade, Ukraine, and Arctic security. The phone call followed Trump's Davos speech and criticism from a U.S. Treasury Secretary regarding Canada's trade deal with China, which would lower levies on Canadian canola oil, and concerns about Chinese goods entering the U.S. through Canada. Carney stated that Trump understood Canada's position on trade.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting China in January 2026 to boost the UK's economy through new trade and investment deals. This is the first visit by a British Prime Minister to China since 2018. Starmer's three-day trip to Beijing and Shanghai, accompanied by finance officials and business leaders, aims to improve relations with China and secure agreements that can help the UK's struggling economy. However, he must navigate the increasingly complex relationship between the US and China, especially after President Trump threatened tariffs on Canada for considering trade deals with China. China views Starmer's visit as an opportunity to engage with a key US ally amidst growing tensions with the Trump administration.

Keir Starmer, British Prime Minister, will visit China from January 29-31, marking the first trip by a British Prime Minister since 2018. The visit aims to "re-engage" with Beijing, prioritizing trade and economic growth amidst geopolitical tensions. Starmer's agenda is expected to focus on boosting economic ties with China, potentially reviving a high-level business dialogue. However, Starmer will also need to navigate contentious issues such as human rights, the Ukraine war, and the involvement of Chinese firms in British infrastructure. The trip will test the Labour Party's strategy for balancing relations with both the US and China.

In January 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared the decline of the U.S.-led international order at Davos, proposing a new path for middle powers amidst great power competition. Carney's speech and earlier visit to Beijing, where he negotiated energy cooperation and reduced tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, signaled a shift in Canada's foreign policy. These actions were prompted by Canada's over-reliance on the U.S. and concerns over President Trump's trade policies and rhetoric. Trump's retaliatory threats following Carney's Beijing visit, including potential tariffs and withdrawal of an invitation to a peace initiative, were seen as validation of Carney's critique of U.S. hegemony. The Davos address elevated Carney's status, presenting a vision beyond short-term political considerations.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressed U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariff threat against Canada, suggesting it's linked to the upcoming review of the United States-Canada-Mexico Agreement (USMCA). Carney stated that Trump's negotiating tactics should be considered within the context of this review, scheduled for the first half of the year. While Canada has experienced sectoral tariffs under Trump, a majority of U.S.-Canada trade remains tariff-free. The USMCA review is significant as substantial changes could impact the Canadian economy. Trump has increased his verbal attacks on Carney recently.

In January 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a multibillion-dollar package to lower food and essential costs for low-income families. The initiative includes a five-year, 25% boost to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) credit, renamed the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, providing additional support to over 12 million Canadians. A one-time top-up equivalent to a 50% increase will also be provided this year. The measures are projected to cost the government 3.1 billion Canadian dollars in the first year, and between 1.3 and 1.8 billion Canadian dollars in each of the following four years. Additionally, 500 million Canadian dollars will be allocated from the Strategic Response Fund to help businesses address supply chain disruptions, and 150 million Canadian dollars will create a Food Security Fund.

Keir Starmer's planned visit to China from January 29-31 is potentially historic as it would be the first by a British prime minister since 2018. The visit occurs during a period of global realignment, with the traditional dominance of the "anglosphere" fracturing. Experts suggest the existing international order is shifting, with great powers increasingly using economic tools for coercion. Middle powers are responding by hedging their bets amid the rise of China and potential changes in US foreign policy. Starmer's visit is significant in this context, as the UK navigates its role in a changing world order.

The United States, through Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Canadian imports if Canada finalizes a new trade deal with China. This threat follows a similar statement from President Trump. The US fears Canada could become a conduit for cheap Chinese goods entering the US market. The potential deal between Canada and China, announced in January, includes reduced Chinese tariffs on Canadian canola and visa-free entry for Canadian visitors, while Canada would import Chinese electric vehicles under preferential tariffs. This development occurs amidst existing trade tensions between the US and Canada, marked by US import duties on Canadian goods.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated on Sunday that Canada has no intention of pursuing a free trade deal with China. This announcement came in response to Donald Trump's threat to impose a 100% tariff on Canadian goods if Canada pursued such a deal. Carney clarified that recent agreements with China were merely to rectify tariff issues in specific sectors. He emphasized Canada's commitment under the US-Mexico-Canada agreement not to pursue free trade with non-market economies without prior notification. This situation arose after Canada mirrored US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, steel, and aluminum, leading to retaliatory tariffs from China on Canadian goods. Carney's recent visit to China resulted in a reduction of Canada's tariff on Chinese EVs in exchange for lower tariffs on Canadian products and expected Chinese investment in the Canadian auto industry.

Former US President Donald Trump threatened Canada with a 100% tariff on all its goods entering the US if it makes a trade deal with China. Trump issued the warning on Saturday via Truth Social, directly addressing Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. He claimed that China would exploit Canada and use it to circumvent existing US tariffs. Trump's threat comes after Carney's recent visit to China, where he described the country as a "reliable and predictable partner" and encouraged European investment in the Chinese economy. Trump believes a trade deal between Canada and China would endanger Canada's economy and way of life.

Donald Trump threatened Canada with a 100% tariff on all Canadian goods entering the U.S. if Prime Minister Mark Carney strikes a trade deal with China. The threat was made on Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, on Saturday. Tensions between Trump and Carney have risen after Carney's speech in Davos, Switzerland, where he pushed against the world's great powers. Trump accused Carney of planning to make Canada a "drop off port" for Chinese goods entering the U.S. It is unclear if the China trade deal, which reportedly includes electric vehicles, has been finalized. Trump's post referred to Carney as "Governor Carney," echoing past comments where he suggested acquiring Canada.

In January 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 100% tariff on all Canadian goods entering the U.S. if Canada proceeds with a recently announced trade deal with China involving agriproducts and electric vehicles. Trump stated on Truth Social that Canada would not be allowed to become a "Drop Off Port" for Chinese goods. The threat follows rising tensions between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who delivered a speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos that was critical of the Trump administration's policies. Trump also revoked Carney's invitation to join his "Board of Peace." Trump has repeatedly expressed a desire for closer ties with Canada, even suggesting it become the 51st U.S. state.

In January 2026, President Donald Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs on Canadian goods if Canada proceeded with its new trade deal with China. Trump stated that Canada would not be allowed to become a "Drop Off Port" for Chinese goods entering the United States. The trade deal involves Canada lowering tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles in exchange for reduced import taxes on Canadian farm products. This threat follows escalating tensions between Trump and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, stemming from disagreements over trade and Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland. Trump also revoked Carney's invitation to join his "Board of Peace" amid the ongoing dispute.

In January 2026, President Donald Trump attended the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he discussed his Board of Peace initiative. The Board, initially focused on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire, has expanded, raising concerns among Western allies who fear it could rival the United Nations. During the forum, Trump revoked Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to the Board due to Carney's assertive stance towards the U.S. Trump also threatened tariffs on Switzerland and pressured Denmark regarding U.S. control of Greenland, signaling potentially shifting global alliances and a willingness to use economic leverage. These actions have stirred discussions about a possible "new world order" under Trump's influence.

In an interview with the New York Post, former President Donald Trump claimed the U.S. military deployed a weapon he called "the discombobulator" during a U.S. operation in Caracas, Venezuela, aimed at removing Nicolas Maduro from power earlier in the month. Trump stated he was "not allowed to talk about it," but suggested the weapon disabled enemy equipment, specifically preventing the launch of Russian and Chinese rockets. According to Trump, Venezuelan forces were prepared to use these rockets, but the weapon rendered them inoperable. The White House has not commented on the existence or use of such a weapon.

Ukrainian, Russian, and U.S. officials are meeting in Abu Dhabi on Friday for peace talks regarding the war in Ukraine. The meetings, confirmed by both Ukrainian President Zelensky and Russian state news agency Tass, aim to address security issues. Russia's delegation is led by Igor Kostyukov, head of military intelligence. While Ukrainian and Russian negotiators have rarely met directly, the U.S. is expected to mediate, with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner potentially involved. On the table is a revised 20-point peace plan covering territorial arrangements, security guarantees for Ukraine, and postwar reconstruction. Disagreements remain over territory in the Donbas region and security guarantees.

Officials from Ukraine, Russia, and the United States are scheduled to hold trilateral meetings in the United Arab Emirates on Friday and Saturday, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The purpose of these talks is to discuss ending the ongoing war. Prior to the scheduled meetings, attacks continued in Ukraine. Specifically, one person was killed and four were wounded in Russian glide bomb attacks on Komyshuvakha, located in Ukraine’s Zaporizhia region. The governor of the Zaporizhia region, Ivan Fedorov, reported the casualties. The meetings represent a potential diplomatic effort to address the conflict.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney refuted Donald Trump's claim that "Canada lives because of the United States" during a cabinet retreat in Québec on Thursday. This exchange follows Trump's withdrawal of Canada's invitation to join the Board of Peace, a U.S.-led council focused on Gaza's post-war future. The tensions between Carney and Trump escalated at the World Economic Forum in Davos, where both leaders indirectly and directly criticized each other in their speeches. Carney advocated for middle powers like Canada to assert themselves in a fading rules-based order, while Trump stated Canada "should be grateful" for benefits received from the U.S. The White House pointed to Trump's Truth Social post when asked for comment.

In Davos, Switzerland on Thursday, January 22, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that "Canada lives because of the United States." Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, also in Davos for the World Economic Forum, responded to Trump's comment. Carney countered by asserting that Canada thrives due to its own distinct Canadian values. The exchange occurred after Trump's speech at the World Economic Forum. Carney's remarks were made on the same day as Trump's comments.

In January 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney returned from the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where he urged middle powers to resist President Trump's influence. Carney received a standing ovation for his speech assessing the "rupture" to the global order caused by Trump. Upon returning to Canada, Carney delivered a speech in Quebec City, outlining Canada's direction as a global "beacon" of openness, security, and pluralism. He emphasized Canada's commitment to a pluralistic society, a strong economy, and a democracy that protects the vulnerable. Carney asserted that Canada can demonstrate an alternative path away from authoritarianism and exclusion, showcasing progress and justice.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, an annual gathering of global political and corporate leaders, is facing questions about its relevance in a fractured global economy. Occurring in January 2026, the summit takes place amidst heightened geopolitical tensions and a US president who is skeptical of multilateral cooperation and open trade. Critics argue that the WEF is long on talk but short on action, while supporters maintain that it provides a crucial platform for dialogue that can help manage global challenges. The forum's role is being debated as the world grapples with issues such as rebuilding Gaza and Iran's economic crisis. The WEF's ability to foster cooperation is being tested by increasing global divisions.

In Davos, Switzerland on January 22, 2026, US President Donald Trump launched the "Board of Peace," an organization aimed at resolving international conflicts. The initiative, initially intended to oversee Gaza's reconstruction after Israel's war, requires a $1 billion membership fee. Trump chairs the board, with figures like Tony Blair, Marco Rubio, and Jared Kushner in executive roles. While numerous countries have joined, others, including the UK, France, Norway, Sweden, and Slovenia, have declined, raising concerns about the board potentially undermining the United Nations. Trump stated the initiative would collaborate with other entities, including the UN, to address major diplomatic issues. Palestinians in Gaza have expressed skepticism about the initiative.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday, President Donald Trump announced the formation of the Board of Peace, describing it as a new international oversight body. The charter-signing ceremony occurred before Trump's departure, although several key US allies were not in attendance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also met with Trump during the forum. Elon Musk made his first appearance at Davos, participating in discussions about space exploration and artificial intelligence. The BBC's Faisal Islam reported on these key events and other highlights from the day.

UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper announced that Britain will not sign onto Donald Trump's "board of peace" initiative on Thursday, citing concerns about Russian involvement and broader legal issues. The board, unveiled at the World Economic Forum in Davos, aims to oversee a ceasefire and reconstruction in Gaza, though critics see it as undermining existing international bodies. Cooper stated that the UK supports Trump's Gaza plan but has reservations about the treaty's scope and Vladimir Putin's participation, given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. While Trump claims Putin accepted an invitation to join, the Kremlin is seeking clarification. Several countries, including Saudi Arabia and Israel, have expressed interest in joining the board, which already includes figures like Tony Blair and Jared Kushner. Trump is scheduled to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Davos.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has lauded Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, calling it a "stunning denunciation" of Donald Trump's impact on the global rules-based order. Chalmers stated that Carney's comments, describing the current global situation as a "rupture," are being widely discussed within the Australian government. This endorsement follows similar praise from former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. The World Economic Forum is an annual gathering where global leaders discuss pressing international issues. The Treasurer's remarks highlight the Australian government's concern regarding the potential disruption to international norms.

In January 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney stated at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, that the world's rules-based order is ruptured, citing the use of force by world powers. While Carney avoided mentioning Donald Trump, the former US President responded to the criticism. The statement has prompted widespread discussion and analysis. Inside Story interviewed Lionel Barber, Bessma Momani, and Donnacha O Beachain to discuss Carney's claim. The discussion explored whether Carney's assessment of the global order is accurate, given current geopolitical events.

At the World Economic Forum in Davos, Donald Trump launched his "board of peace" initiative, claiming the world is currently "richer, safer, and more peaceful" than a year ago. The signing ceremony included ministers and heads of government from 19 countries, including Morocco, Hungary, and Saudi Arabia. Trump stated the organization, which he will chair, could be "one of the most consequential bodies ever created" and suggested it could potentially work with or even supplant the United Nations. The board was initially conceived as part of a Gaza ceasefire plan but has since expanded to encompass a broader geopolitical role. Trump also repeated his claim to have stopped eight wars.

Amid a bitter winter with widespread power outages and heating shortages in Kyiv due to Russian attacks, Donald Trump is scheduled to meet with Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The meeting, planned for Thursday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, comes as Trump's administration attempts to halt the ongoing conflict. Trump's delegates are also expected to meet with Vladimir Putin in Moscow later in the week. The situation in Kyiv is dire, with thousands of buildings lacking heat and a majority of the capital without power as temperatures plummet. Trump has expressed his desire to end the "horrible war" in Ukraine.

The UK government has approved China's plan to build a large embassy in London, located at the former Royal Mint site near the Tower of London. The 65,000 square meter embassy project had faced previous delays. This approval is expected to improve UK-China relations and potentially pave the way for a visit to Beijing by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which would be the first such trip since 2018. The decision may face legal challenges from local residents. Starmer is scheduled to visit Beijing and Shanghai.

Donald Trump's address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, drew massive crowds, with hundreds of elites lining up for hours to secure a seat. The high demand resulted in overflow rooms for those unable to get into the main hall. Attendees included top executives, academics, politicians, and even the president of Latvia. The event took place amidst rising tensions between the US and Europe, partly due to Trump's interest in acquiring Greenland. Some attendees expressed concerns that Trump's speech would be provocative and overshadow the forum's agenda.

Britain has approved China's plan to construct a large, new embassy in London, a 700,000 sq ft facility at the former Royal Mint Court near the Tower of London. This decision potentially paves the way for a visit to China by Prime Minister Keir Starmer later this month, which would be the first visit by a British leader since 2018. The UK government is also seeking approval for the redevelopment of its own embassy in Beijing. The approval of the new embassy, which will replace the current one in central London, follows three years of opposition and was reportedly a key factor influencing the decision regarding Starmer's trip. While media reports indicate the visit is planned for January 29-31, neither government has officially confirmed it.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has approved the construction of a large Chinese embassy in London, despite opposition from critics concerned about potential spying operations. The 5.5-acre site, formerly home to the Royal Mint near the Tower of London, will house China's largest embassy in Europe. The decision follows months of delays and is subject to technical conditions. The approval is expected to disappoint China hawks, local residents, and some Labour Party members who campaigned against the project. Starmer's decision may improve relations with China ahead of his planned trip to the country, as he seeks to increase investment opportunities.

In January 2026, the UK government approved China's plan to build the largest embassy in Europe in London, eight years after China acquired the Royal Mint Court site near the Tower of London. Housing Minister Steve Reed's decision precedes a planned visit to China by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The project faced three years of opposition from residents, lawmakers, and pro-democracy campaigners due to security concerns, potential for harassment of political opponents, and the likelihood of large protests. Despite warnings about potential espionage, the government stated that intelligence agencies have implemented measures to manage risks and protect national security. Residents plan to legally challenge the approval, though the government considers the decision final unless overturned in court.

The UK government has approved the construction of a large new Chinese embassy complex at Royal Mint Court in east London, ending a years-long dispute. The decision has faced opposition from local residents and MPs, who cite security concerns and potential displacement. Despite these concerns, security services believe they can manage the risks, and the approval may improve UK-China relations ahead of a potential visit by Keir Starmer. China has made the embassy a priority, with Xi Jinping raising the issue with the UK Prime Minister. Residents plan a legal challenge, potentially delaying the project. The decision also comes amid China blocking the UK's plans to redevelop its embassy in Beijing.