Xi Jinping tells Starmer: China and UK need to strengthen cooperation

Chinese President Xi Jinping met with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing on Thursday morning.

Xi said: "In recent years, Sino-British relations have experienced some setbacks, which was not in the interests of either country. Given the current complex and changing international situation, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and major economies, China and the UK need to strengthen dialogue and cooperation to maintain world peace and stability, as well as to promote their respective economies and people's livelihoods."

Starmer said Britain wants a "more sophisticated" relationship with China.

"China is a vital player on the global stage and it is vital that we build a more sophisticated relationship," Starmer said.

At the invitation of Chinese Premier Li Qiang, Starmer is paying an official visit to China from Jan 28 to 31.

His visit marks the first visit to China by a British prime minister in eight years.

Starmer was greeted by Xi at the Great Hall of the People this morning.

He will also meet Premier Li Qiang later on Thursday.

Starmer is accompanied by a delegation of executives from over 50 major British companies and representatives from institutions in key sectors such as finance, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, culture, and creative industries, indicating the British side's anticipation of deepening bilateral economic and trade relations.