Marking the first visit by a British prime minister in eight years, the trip signals a significant renewal of diplomatic engagement.
The spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Guo Jiakun, stated that the visit aims to build on the momentum of recent exchanges, specifically President Xi Jinping’s August 2024 call with Starmer and their November meeting at the Rio G20 Summit, which have steered relations toward improvement, according to Xinhua.
During the four-day visit, Starmer will meet President Xi to discuss strategic bilateral ties, hold formal talks with Premier Li, and meet top legislator Zhao Leji.
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Discussions will cover bilateral relations and international issues of common interest. Aside from Beijing, Starmer will also visit Shanghai.
Highlighting the global significance of Sino-British relations, Guo noted that cooperation between these two UN Security Council permanent members serves mutual interests and contributes to global stability.
Beijing acknowledged the Labour government’s commitment to a “consistent, enduring, and strategic relationship” and hopes this visit will enhance mutual trust and open a new chapter of stable development.
Keir Starmer will visit China until January 31.
