Keir Starmer embarked on Britain’s first official visit to China since 2018 this week, aiming to foster stronger political and economic ties with Beijing amid escalating tensions between Western countries and the United States.
Starman, whose stance on China has been criticized by some British and US politicians, emphasized that while vigilance is necessary against potential security threats from China, Britain cannot afford to overlook opportunities within its second-largest economy. “It doesn’t make sense to bury our heads in the sand when it comes to China,” he told reporters on his flight. “We need to engage.”
Starman’s delegation of over 50 business leaders will meet with President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang in Beijing on Thursday, followed by a trip to Shanghai where they plan to converse with local executives.
This visit could represent a turning point in Britain-China relations following years of acrimony stemming from China’s crackdown on political freedoms in Hong Kong, its support for Russia during the Ukraine conflict, and allegations of espionage by British security services. Western nations have intensified diplomatic efforts with China in recent months as they navigate uncertainties surrounding US President Donald Trump’s administration.
Starman’s trip follows recent tensions with Trump over his controversial statements about Greenland, criticism of Britain’s deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Archipelago to Mauritius, and accusations that NATO allies avoided combat during the Afghan war.
On Saturday, Trump threatened a 100% tariff on Canadian goods if its prime minister, Mark Carney, negotiated a trade agreement with China.
Starman acknowledged Britain could strengthen economic ties with China without antagonizing Trump but insisted upon their longstanding collaborative relationship in defense, security, intelligence, and trade areas.
Regarding future discussions with Chinese leaders, Starman declined to elaborate on potential topics. He also did not address the issue of Jimmy Lai, a former Hong Kong media tycoon convicted for national security crimes last year. He expressed no interest in pressuring China or Russia to end their war in Ukraine.
When asked about visa-free travel opportunities, Starman said he hoped to achieve “progress” on this front but was more cautious in discussing broader diplomatic approaches with Carney regarding global power structures. “I am a pragmatist who applies common sense,” he stated. He firmly rejected the notion that his government must choose between the US and Europe.