Trump Warns UK on China Trade Amid Starmer's Visit
During the premiere of the “Melania” film at the Kennedy Center, U.S. President Donald Trump said that it is "very dangerous" for the UK to do business with China. This statement comes as UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is working to strengthen economic ties with China.
Starmer met with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Thursday to advocate for a more sophisticated relationship between the two countries. Starmer has described the last eight years of UK-China relations as an "ice age" and said that the talks with Xi Jinping have put the bilateral relationship in a stronger position.
Starmer's China Visit
Starmer's visit to China is the first by a UK Prime Minister in eight years. During the visit, Starmer stated that Britain could continue to strengthen economic ties with China without angering Trump, due to the country's long history of working closely with the United States.
Starmer's visit included a meeting with Xi Jinping, lasting 80 minutes, double the scheduled time, in Beijing. According to Chinese state broadcaster CCTV, Xi stressed that major powers must adhere to international law or the world would regress into a jungle. Starmer emphasized the importance of working together on issues like climate change and global stability.
Starmer said British businesses had been asking for clearer rules, better market access, and practical support to meet consumer demand in China. The UK stated its agreement with China would make it easier for British businesses to find partners and create channels to help open up markets.
Agreements and Objectives
The UK and China held their first economic summit and trade talks since 2018 last year, signaling a thawing in economic relations.
Starmer has stated he will protect national security while maintaining diplomatic dialogue and economic cooperation with China. He sees China as a potential source of growth, as his government has struggled to deliver promised economic growth. More than 50 UK business executives joined Starmer on the trip, seeking to expand opportunities for British companies in China and secure Chinese investment in the UK.
Deals struck so far do not include investments worth billions. Agreements have been made to make exports from the UK to China easier.
Conclusion
Amidst Starmer's efforts to improve UK-China relations, Trump has warned the UK against doing business with China, stating it is "very dangerous". Starmer's visit, the first by a British Prime Minister in eight years, has resulted in a strengthened bilateral relationship and several economic agreements.
