British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping have jointly called for a deeper, more strategic partnership between the United Kingdom and China, reflecting a reset in bilateral relations after years of tension and diplomatic stagnation.

In a landmark meeting in Beijing — the first UK prime ministerial visit in eight years — both leaders underscored the importance of strengthening dialogue and cooperation on economic, climate and stability issues in an increasingly complex global environment.

Starmer told Xi that he seeks a “sophisticated relationship” that identifies opportunities for collaboration while maintaining open discussion on areas of disagreement, including human rights and security concerns.

As part of the discussions, the two sides made progress on practical measures, such as reducing tariffs on British exports like Scotch whisky, introducing visa-free travel for UK visitors to China for stays under thirty days, and exploring broader cooperation on supply chain security and irregular migration challenges.

Xi, for his part, highlighted that China-UK relations have experienced “twists and turns” that were not in either nation’s interests and emphasised the need for enhanced dialogue and cooperation to sustain world peace and stability.

He framed the deepening of ties as aligned with both countries’ fundamental interests, stating that major powers should lead international cooperation under evolving geopolitical conditions.

Starmer’s visit also yielded substantive agreements aimed at boosting economic ties, including cooperation frameworks for British firms operating in China and a feasibility study toward future trade and services agreements.

The papers signed during the visit are intended to unlock new opportunities for UK businesses and attract Chinese investment, highlighting the economic imperative behind the renewed engagement.

While the call for deeper ties has attracted international attention — particularly in the context of broader shifts in U.S. engagement and global trade policies — Starmer stressed that the relationship must be grounded in principled dialogue, balancing economic potential with security and human rights considerations.

Both leaders expressed a shared commitment to advancing cooperation that serves mutual interests and addresses contemporary global challenges, signalling a significant moment in UK-China diplomacy.