UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer Begins Four-Day Official Visit to China

Starmer Arrives in Beijing for Key Talks

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to commence a four-day official visit to China, beginning on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, and concluding on Saturday, January 31. The visit, which includes stops in both Beijing and Shanghai, marks the first time a British Prime Minister has traveled to China since Theresa May's visit in 2018.

Invited by Premier Li Qiang, Prime Minister Starmer's agenda is focused on improving bilateral relations and boosting economic cooperation between the two nations. He is expected to hold high-level discussions with President Xi Jinping, Premier Li Qiang, and top Chinese lawmaker Zhao Leji.

Objectives: Economic Boost and Diplomatic Reset

The primary objectives of the visit include attracting investment, expanding market access for British firms, and engaging China on shared global concerns. Prime Minister Starmer is accompanied by Business Secretary Peter Kyle and a delegation of over 50 British companies and institutions from sectors such as finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, signaling a strong emphasis on trade and economic ties. Discussions are anticipated to cover areas like financial services, automobiles, and Scotch whisky, with the aim of securing Chinese technology and investment.

Beyond economic considerations, the visit seeks to enhance mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation, addressing global challenges such as climate change, artificial intelligence, and public health. The UK government, under Starmer's leadership since 2024, has expressed a desire to 'reset relations' and 'rebuild trade ties' with China after years of strain.

Complex Backdrop to Bilateral Relations

The visit unfolds against a backdrop of complex and often fraught relations between London and Beijing. Over the past decade, ties have been strained by disputes concerning Hong Kong, allegations of espionage and cyberattacks, and broader security concerns. The approval of China's new 'mega-embassy' in London, a decision that drew criticism, immediately precedes this high-profile trip.

Analysts note that both sides are emphasizing 'pragmatism' as a guiding principle for the visit, particularly given the current international landscape, including strained ties with the United States. The bilateral trade volume between the UK and China stood at approximately $98.36 billion in 2024. Public opinion in the UK remains divided, with a recent YouGov survey indicating that while many Britons view China as unfriendly or a hostile threat, a significant portion also acknowledges the economic benefits of the relationship.

Looking Ahead

This visit represents a critical diplomatic effort by the UK to navigate its relationship with the world's second-largest economy. While aiming for an economic boost and a more stable relationship, Prime Minister Starmer will also need to address sensitive issues and balance economic opportunities with national security concerns. The outcomes of these high-level talks are expected to shape the trajectory of UK-China relations for the foreseeable future.