Sir Keir Starmer has told President Xi Jinping that Britain is seeking a “more sophisticated relationship” with Beijing after the leaders held talks in China on Thursday morning.
Speaking at the Great Hall of the People, the Prime Minister said it had been “too long” since a British leader last set foot in the country.
Sir Keir stressed the importance of improved relations with Beijing on the economy, saying: “It is with the British people in mind that I am here today.
“I made the promise 18 months ago when we were elected into government that I would make Britain face outwards again.
“Because as we all know, events abroad affect everything that happens back in our home countries, to prices on the supermarket shelves to how secure we feel.”
Sir Keir also hailed China as a “vital player on a global scale” and said he “looks forward to taking [both countries’] relationship further”.
At the beginning of the meeting, Mr Xi admitted that “China-UK relations went through some twists and turns that did not serve the interests of our countries”.
He added that given the “turbulent and fluid” state of the current world, greater cooperation between London and Beijing was crucial “for the sake of world peace and stability or for our two countries’ economies and peoples”.
Mr Xi admitted that ‘China-UK relations went through some twists and turns’
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The Chinese leader said: “In the past, Labour governments made important contributions to the growth of China-UK relations.
“China stands ready to develop with the UK a long-term and consistent strategic partnership. It will benefit our two peoples.”
Mr Xi went on to say that to say that it engaging with Beijing is “unavoidable”.
He added: “Good things often take time and effort. As long as something is the right thing to do and serves the fundamental interests of our countries and peoples… We should take a long-term view.”
The talks took place in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing
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Mr Xi also went on to quote an ancient Chinese proverb: “Range far your eye over long distances.”
He added: “As long as we take a broad perspective, rise above differences and respect each other, then we will prove ourselves able to stand the test of history.”
The talks between the pair mark the beginning of what will be an incredibly busy day for the Prime Minister.
Sir Keir will be embarking on a tour of the Forbidden City for a cultural reception, before joining Chinese Premier Li Qiang for a welcome ceremony and further talks.
Mr Xi went on to say that to say that it engaging with Beijing is ‘unavoidable’
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The pair are expected to sign off a series of agreements between Britain and China before ending the day with a formal dinner.
Among the deals due to be finalised is a new border security pact with Beijing, aimed at tackling Britain’s ongoing small boat crisis.
Under the agreement, Britain and China will work together to curb Channel crossings, after ministers revealed that more than 60 per cent of small boats used last year were fitted with Chinese-made engines.
The Prime Minister has been accompanied on his three-day visit by 54 delegates drawn from across British business, sport and cultural sectors.
