During their meeting at Beijing’s Great Hall of the People, both leaders avoided contentious topics and expressed admiration for each other’s nations.
Starmer, referencing strained relations with previous Conservative U.K. governments, said: “China is a crucial global player. It’s essential to forge a more nuanced relationship, identifying collaboration opportunities while enabling meaningful dialogue on areas of disagreement.”
Xi, through an interpreter, praised Britain’s Labour Party for its past contributions to China-U.K. relations. He mentioned recent “twists and turns” that were not beneficial for both countries.
Describing the global situation as “turbulent and fluid,” Xi emphasized the need for more dialogue between the nations for world peace, stability, and mutual economic and people benefits.
He noted that if the leaders could overlook their differences, they would “stand the test of history.”
Referring to the controversy surrounding China in the U.K., Xi commented, “Your visit has garnered much attention. Sometimes good things take time.”
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