Economic reports and analyses from UK government and financial institutions

Starmer Meets China's Xi at G20 Summit in Brazil, Seeks 'Consistent, Durable' Ties

Nov 18, 2024, 10:43 AM

On Monday, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, marking the first meeting between a British prime minister and China's leader since 2018. Starmer expressed his desire to build a 'pragmatic and serious relationship' with China, emphasizing the importance of consistent, durable, and respectful ties, and agreeing to 'avoid surprises' where possible. The leaders discussed areas of mutual cooperation, with Starmer highlighting that a strong UK-China relationship is important for both countries and for global stability. Starmer also raised human rights concerns during the talks. This meeting signifies a potential reset in UK-China relations, which Starmer views as key to accelerating economic growth in Britain, marking a major pivot from Conservative predecessors.