Starmer Arrives in Beijing, Saying 'China Matters' For The UK. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has arrived in Beijing, marking the first UK prime ministerial visit to China since 2018. Starmer is due to meet President Xi Jinping on Thursday, with around 60 British business and cultural leaders joining the trip, including representatives from HSBC, GSK, and Jaguar Land Rover. The visit signals a push to reboot the UK's relationship with China, despite criticism over China's human rights record and its global influence. Critics argue the country’s world view is incompatible with Western values, citing issues like the treatment of Uyghurs in Xinjiang and the imprisonment of pro-democracy figures like Jimmy Lai. Downing Street says Starmer will raise human rights concerns during the visit but argues the relationship is crucial for UK interests, particularly in trade. Starmer stresses that China plays a vital role in the global economy and a consistent relationship is essential despite disagreements, including ongoing concerns over Chinese espionage activities.