The UK is at a pivotal moment in its relationship with China, with talks of a potential visit by President Xi Jinping stirring both interest and controversy. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has issued a strong warning to the UK about pursuing closer business ties with China, calling it “very dangerous.”
Speaking at the Kennedy Center during the premiere of the documentary Melania, Trump commented on the UK’s plan to expand commercial cooperation with China. He added, “It’s very dangerous for them to do that, and even more dangerous for Canada. Canada is not doing well, and China is not the answer.” He emphasized his personal familiarity with Xi Jinping, calling him a friend.
Starmer Opens Door for Xi Visit
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raised eyebrows after suggesting he would consider hosting President Xi in Britain. This comes after their recent meetings in Beijing, which were described as “warm” and productive. Starmer’s engagement with Xi appears to signal a potential thaw in UK-China relations, strengthened by shared interests, including a mutual passion for football.
President Xi last visited the UK in 2015, sharing a pint with then-Prime Minister David Cameron, highlighting the potential for diplomatic and cultural connection.
Downing Street Signals Openness
When asked about the prospect of a visit, a Downing Street spokesperson emphasized that resetting relations with China would benefit both British citizens and businesses. They added that future engagements would be announced in the usual manner. If a state visit were to occur, it would require a formal invitation from King Charles.
However, such a visit is not without controversy. Five UK MPs remain banned from China, and concerns persist over espionage, trade practices, and human rights issues, including the imprisonment of British tycoon Jimmy Lai.
Conservative Criticism
Conservative MP Kemi Badenoch criticized Starmer, accusing him of “kowtowing” to China. She argued that the UK should maintain dialogue but not compromise its national interest, pointing to China’s alleged espionage and support for Russia in the Ukraine conflict.
Agreements and Deals
During his trip to Beijing, Starmer was accompanied by a delegation of 54 business and cultural representatives. Key agreements included a reduction in whisky tariffs from 10% to 5%, valued at £250 million over five years, and a visa-free travel deal for UK citizens visiting China for less than 30 days. The visa arrangement, still pending a start date, aligns UK travelers with arrangements already offered to citizens from countries like France and Germany.
Starmer also described the goal of a “more sophisticated” relationship with China, acknowledging the “twists and turns” in recent years. He raised areas of concern during discussions, including the treatment of the Uighur minority and the case of Jimmy Lai, though officials declined to provide specifics.
The engagement, according to Starmer, reflects a balanced approach: seizing opportunities for business and cultural exchange while maintaining dialogue on issues of disagreement.
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