PM Starmer calls for ‘strong’ UK-China relationship

Sir Keir Starmer has met President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Brazil emphasising the importance of a “strong UK-China relationship” for both countries.

The meeting was the first time a UK prime minister has met the Chinese president in person since 2018, following a recent souring in relations.

Sir Keir raised the case of the detained Hong Kong pro-democracy activist, Jimmy Lai, saying he was concerned about reports of a “deterioration” in his health.

The PM also signalled a desire for greater business co-operation, particularly on “areas of mutual cooperation” such as international stability, climate change and economic growth.

Sir Keir met President Xi on the fringes of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, according to the Press Association news agency.

Speaking at the start of the meeting, the PM said: “We want our relations to be consistent, durable, respectful, as we have agreed, avoid surprises where possible.”

He added: “The UK will be a predictable, consistent, sovereign actor committed to the rule of law.”

Sir Keir also proposed a full bilateral meeting in Beijing or London.

Speaking through a translator, Mr Xi told Sir Keir that the two countries should commit to mutual respect and openess, saying: “China and the UK have broad space for co-operation across various domains, including trade, investment, clean energy, financial services, healthcare and improving our peoples’ well-being.”

In August, the pair spoke over the phone after Labour’s election victory the previous month, but they have not yet met in person.

China’s military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine has prompted criticism from the UK and other Western countries.

Credit: bbc.com

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