UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit, underscoring the significance of a “strong UK-China relationship” for both nations.
This encounter marked the first in-person meeting between a UK PM and the Chinese president since 2018, following a period of strained relations.
Keir addressed the situation of detained Hong Kong pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai, expressing concern over reports of Lai’s “deteriorating” health. The prime minister also indicated a wish for increased business collaboration, particularly in areas of cooperation such as international stability, climate change, and economic growth.
Keir met President Xi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. At the start of their meeting, he stated, “We want our relations to be consistent, durable, and respectful, as we have agreed, avoiding surprises where possible.
“The UK will be a predictable, consistent, sovereign actor committed to the rule of law.”
Speaking through a translator, President Xi told Keir that both countries should adhere to mutual respect and openness.
He said, “China and the UK have broad space for cooperation across various domains, including trade, investment, clean energy, financial services, healthcare and improving our people’s well-being.”
A summary of the closed-door meeting revealed that the prime minister outlined the shared responsibility of the leaders to work together for global stability, economic cooperation, and the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy. Climate change was a priority for the prime minister, who emphasised that both countries play a crucial role in supporting the global clean power transition.
A Downing Street spokesperson noted that the prime minister seeks China’s support on global initiatives, especially considering President-elect Trump’s anticipated rollback of green policies.
With China’s military support for Russia’s war in Ukraine drawing criticism from the UK and other Western nations, the prime minister also expressed a desire to “engage honestly and frankly” on contentious issues, including Hong Kong, human rights, and Russia’s war in Ukraine.
This was their first meeting following an initial phone conversation in August after Labour’s election victory. Keir has now proposed a full bilateral meeting in either Beijing or London. The two leaders also agreed that Chancellor Rachel Reeves should visit Beijing next year to discuss economic and financial cooperation with Vice Premier He Lifeng.
Frances Ibiefo
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