British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to make waves with his first visit to China as a British leader since 2018, scheduled for 28 January 2024. This trip aims to strengthen political and economic ties between the UK and China while navigating an increasingly unpredictable global landscape, particularly with tensions between Western nations and the United States.
Importance of the Trip
Accompanied by a delegation of over fifty business executives, Starmer plans to meet with high-ranking officials, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang. This visit is crucial for both the UK and China as they look to recalibrate their relationship amidst concerns over security threats and previous diplomatic strains related to Hong Kong and Russia’s involvement in the Ukraine war.
Economic Opportunities
- Trade Discussions: Starmer’s trip comes at a time when China is Britain’s fourth-largest trading partner, with trade volume reaching about £100 billion (approximately S$173 billion).
- Strengthening Economic Ties: The UK aims to improve living standards through potentially lucrative trade deals with China, which advocates for a multipolar world.
Starmer emphasised the need to engage with China, stating, “It doesn’t make sense to stick our head in the ground and bury it in the sand.” He believes this engagement could lead to substantial economic progress for the UK.
Navigating Political Challenges
The visit is not without its challenges. Starmer’s strategy has attracted criticism from both British and US politicians who argue that it underestimates the security risks posed by China. Recent tensions with former US President Donald Trump over trade policies further complicate the situation, especially after Trump threatened to impose high tariffs on Canadian goods as a reaction to their trade dealings with China.
A Cautious Approach
While Starmer expressed a desire to discuss various topics, including visa-free travel possibilities, he maintained a cautious approach regarding sensitive issues such as Hong Kong’s political situation and China’s relationship with Russia.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to shift, Starmer’s visit could mark a pivotal moment in UK-China relations—one that highlights a mutual interest in collaboration despite underlying tensions.