Keir Starmer's Strategic Visit to China: Opportunities and Concerns

Mon Feb 02 2026 16:55:42 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's inaugural trip to China marks a pivotal moment in UK-China relations, as he aims to strengthen economic ties while navigating significant criticisms regarding China's human rights record and espionage activities.

Sir Keir Starmer has embarked on a historic three-day visit to China, the first by a UK prime minister in eight years. During the trip, he seeks to enhance trading and cultural relationships despite facing domestic opposition regarding China's national security risks and human rights issues. Starmer asserts that maintaining a strategic partnership with China is essential for the UK's interests. However, critics remain concerned about the implications of engaging with a state accused of severe human rights violations and espionage.

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 at home over the risk posed by China to the UK's national security and Xi Jinping's human rights record.

The PM - who will meet President Xi on Thursday - said the trip will bring benefits to the UK and it was important to maintain a strategic and consistent relationship with the world's second-largest economy.

As he arrived at the airport in Beijing, Sir Keir was greeted by a delegation of Chinese government officials and presented with a bouquet of flowers. Union flags were seen flying in Beijing's Tiananmen Square.

Addressing the 60 British business leaders accompanying him on the trip, the PM emphasized, On this delegation, you're making history. You're part of the change that we're bringing about. We are resolute about being outward-looking, about taking opportunities, about building relationships...and always being absolutely focused on our national interest.

For a UK prime minister, the politics of engaging with China is tricky. China has faced accusations of committing human rights crimes against its Uyghur population and other ethnic minorities, prompting serious concerns in the UK.

Starmer's critics argue that engaging with China, particularly regarding a controversial mega-embassy in London, risks national security. His opponents, especially in the Liberal Democrats and Conservative Party, have expressed alarm over what engaging with China might entail, with some claiming undue influence and potential espionage.

Despite the challenges, Starmer insists that dialogue with China is essential, stating that it allows for dissenting issues to be addressed while fostering agreements where mutual interests align.

Even amidst condemnations regarding China's actions, Starmer maintains that fostering ties with Beijing is critical for Britain's future and its strategic interests.