Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in China for a three-day visit - the first by a British prime minister in eight years.
Sir Keir is seeking to strengthen trading and cultural ties between the two nations after years of acrimony.
However, he has faced criticism from opponents over the risks posed by China to the UK's national security and concerns regarding Xi Jinping's human rights record.
Starmer stated that the trip will bring benefits to the UK, underlining the importance of maintaining a strategic and consistent relationship with the world's second-largest economy.
Upon arrival in Beijing, he was greeted by Chinese officials and members of a delegation of 60 British business leaders. He encouraged them, saying: On this delegation, you're making history. You're part of the change that we're bringing about. He reiterated the UK's commitment to being outward-looking and focused on national interests.
The geopolitical landscape remains complex for UK-China relations, particularly given accusations of human rights abuses in Xinjiang and concerns over espionage activities in the UK. Starmer’s approach includes addressing disagreements while progressing on issues of mutual interest.
Political opponents, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, have sharply criticized the visit, suggesting it is a misstep for the UK to engage with a country perceived as undermining British interests. Badenoch remarked that if she were prime minister, she would not visit China at this time.
Starmer has noted that as he meets with Chinese leaders, he intends to raise pertinent issues while also seeking closer ties that benefit the UK amidst broader geopolitical tensions, particularly between China and the United States.
