Freezing winds from the north have locked Beijing’s lakes and rivers in ice, keeping most people far from the water. Yet despite the harsh winter, world leaders have been steadily arriving in the Chinese capital.
Over the past two months, Beijing has hosted delegations from France, South Korea, Ireland, Canada and Finland, with Germany’s chancellor expected to visit next month. Now, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is set to join the list, marking the first visit by a British prime minister to China in eight years.
Starmer’s trip follows the UK government’s recent approval of plans for a large Chinese embassy in London, a decision that appears to have smoothed the path for the visit. Chinese officials had earlier indicated the trip would not be confirmed until the issue was settled.
With both sides now ready to resume high-level talks, the UK is hoping to secure new trade agreements to support its economy. According to Dr Yu Jie, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, even a modest improvement in trade relations would be considered progress.
The visit also raises broader questions about China’s strategy. Beijing appears keen to use these diplomatic engagements to reshape its global image, presenting itself as a stable and reliable partner amid strained relations with the United States.
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