Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer embarks on a pivotal three-day journey to China, marking the first such visit by a British leader since 2018. This trip is a significant step in the government's efforts to strengthen ties with China, despite concerns and controversies. The delegation includes prominent figures from British business and culture, such as HSBC, GSK, Jaguar Land Rover, and the National Theatre.
The primary focus of the visit is to foster a more robust and consistent relationship with China, which has been characterized by inconsistency in the past. Sir Keir aims to address the challenges posed by China, including human rights abuses, espionage, and differing worldviews. However, critics argue that China's authoritarian regime and human rights record make it a risky partner, and the government should exercise caution.
Downing Street acknowledges the complexities, stating that the prime minister will 'raise challenging issues where interests and values differ.' China's treatment of the Uyghur population and the pro-democracy activist Jimmy Lai in Hong Kong are among the concerns. Additionally, the UK's security agencies have raised alarms about China's espionage activities, with MI5's head warning of daily national security threats.
Despite these challenges, the government believes the visit is crucial for national interests. Sir Keir emphasizes the importance of a strategic and consistent relationship with China, a major global economic player. He argues that 'isolationism' has been detrimental in the past, and 'strategic re-engagement' will strengthen the UK's position.
The trip comes as a response to the increasing engagement of other Western leaders with China. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron have recently visited Beijing, and the leaders of France and Germany have had multiple meetings with Chinese officials. The UK, according to Sir Keir, risks becoming an 'outlier' in this context.
However, the visit has sparked controversy. Conservative Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel criticizes Sir Keir's approach, suggesting he lacks the resolve to stand up for British interests. Some in the government are skeptical about closer ties with China, and the approval of a new Chinese embassy in London has raised security concerns.
Sir Keir's itinerary includes meetings with President Xi Jinping and a subsequent visit to Tokyo to meet the new Japanese Prime Minister. This trip is a significant diplomatic move, and its outcomes will shape the UK's relationship with China in the years to come.
