Starmer pushes for stronger ties with China without compromising security

WorldPolitics
28 Jan 2026 • 10:31 AM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

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  • Sir Keir Starmer is leading a delegation of over 50 British business, sports, and cultural representatives on a three-day visit to Beijing, China.
  • The prime minister aims to strengthen the UK's relationship with China, which he described as having "veered from the golden age to the ice age."
  • He will insist that economic cooperation will not be traded for national security, and plans to raise difficult subjects such as human rights and espionage.
  • The visit marks the first by a British prime minister since 2018, following a period of cooled relations after events in Hong Kong and the Huawei ban.
  • Sir Keir stated he would not choose between the US and China, emphasising pragmatic and consistent cooperation for national interest and safety.

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