Downing Street has deliberately left the door open to a potential future state visit to the United Kingdom by Chinese President Xi Jinping, signalling a significant diplomatic shift as the Government actively seeks to strengthen bilateral relations.
Government Aims for Constructive Reset with Beijing
During Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's recent trip to Beijing, a Number 10 spokesman declined to rule out the possibility of a visit by the Chinese leader, emphasising the administration's broader strategic objectives. The official underscored the Government's clear intention to pursue a more constructive and open relationship with China, stating this approach aligns directly with British national interests.
Historical Context and Recent Tensions
President Xi's last state visit to Britain occurred in October 2015, during the premiership of David Cameron, who famously championed a "golden era" in UK-China ties. That visit included the iconic image of the two leaders sharing a pint at a pub near Chequers.
However, relations between London and Beijing deteriorated significantly under subsequent Conservative governments. Major points of friction included:
- Concerns over the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong
- China's diplomatic and economic support for Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine
- Allegations of severe human rights abuses in the Xinjiang region
Starmer's Diplomatic Mission and Conservative Criticism
Sir Keir Starmer's visit to China marked the first by a UK prime minister since 2018. During the trip, he expressed a desire to establish "more sophisticated" ties with the world's second-largest economy, acknowledging the necessity of engaging on difficult issues while pursuing mutual interests.
The mere suggestion of a potential Xi Jinping visit has drawn sharp criticism from the Conservative opposition. Leader Kemi Badenoch accused the Prime Minister of failing to act in Britain's national interest, arguing against "rolling out the red carpet" for a state accused of espionage, trade violations, and supporting Russia's aggression in Ukraine.
Badenoch stated that while dialogue with China remains essential, the UK must avoid any perception of kowtowing to Beijing, highlighting the delicate balance the current Government must navigate in its foreign policy approach.
