New Delhi: China-UK strategic partnership talks gained focus on Thursday as President Xi Jinping met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing. Both leaders discussed multilateralism, free trade, and ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation. President Xi warned that unilateralism, protectionism, and power politics threaten global stability.
Xi made these remarks during his meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing. He stressed that international law can work only when all nations respect it. Major powers, he said, must lead by example to prevent a return to “the law of the jungle”.
Both leaders underlined their shared support for multilateralism and free trade. Xi further said China and the UK should jointly promote genuine multilateralism. He added that global governance must become more just and equitable. The Chinese leader also called for an equal and orderly multipolar world and inclusive economic globalisation.
The meeting took place during Starmer’s official visit to China. Both sides agreed to work towards a long-term and consistent comprehensive strategic partnership. The leaders said stronger cooperation could bring mutual benefits despite existing differences, according to a post on X by Mao Ning, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China.
President Xi said China is ready to work with the UK with a broader historical perspective. He urged both countries to respect each other and rise above disagreements. He added that the untapped potential of bilateral cooperation should translate into real outcomes.
For his part, Starmer said growth at home is closely linked to engagement with major global powers. He described the talks with President Xi as constructive and forward-looking. The two leaders, he said, reaffirmed their commitment to a long-term strategic partnership.
Starmer also noted that both sides agreed to maintain frank and open dialogue on areas of disagreement. He further said his government would always act in the interests of the British people while pursuing stable international relations.
