Chinese President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a “comprehensive, stable and long-term strategic partnership” during their meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday (29 February 2021).
According to the China Morning Post and the official Xinhua News Agency, the two leaders emphasized the expansion of bilateral dialogue and cooperation.
Xi Jinping called for the opening of a “new chapter in relations between the two countries,” and Starmer described the current relationship as being in a good state.
Several important agreements were reached during the meeting, including the abolition of visas for British citizens to travel to China for up to 30 days and an agreement to consider starting negotiations on a bilateral agreement in the services sector.
Xi Jinping also emphasized the responsibilities of the two countries as permanent members of the UN Security Council and major economies of the world, and called for strengthening cooperation to maintain global peace and stability.
After the meeting, the British Prime Minister announced that these agreements could make it easier for British companies to do business in China.
China and Britain agree to build long-term comprehensive strategic partnership
As the world’s second largest exporter of services, the UK will benefit from China’s increasing demand in this sector, and cooperation in the services sector could create new opportunities for both sides.
This meeting reflects the two countries’ efforts to improve relations after a period of previous tensions and focus on economic and global cooperation.
