Britain and China agreed to reset relations on Thursday, January 29, after Prime Minister Keir Starmer and President Xi Jinping pledged closer cooperation on trade, investment and technology.

During the first visit by a British leader to China in eight years, Beijing granted British citizens 30 days’ visa-free access and agreed to halve tariffs on Chinese whisky imports. UK drugmaker AstraZeneca announced a $15 billion investment in China.

Starmer spent around three hours with Xi in talks covering trade, security and the war in Ukraine. He said improved ties would boost growth while allowing “frank dialogue” on areas of disagreement, including human rights. Xi said China was ready for a long-term partnership that could “withstand the test of history.”

The visit comes as Western allies are unsettled by the unpredictability of U.S. President Donald Trump. Starmer has prioritised rebuilding ties with China despite criticism from opponents who cite security and human rights concerns.

The two countries also agreed to cooperate against people-smuggling networks, including sharing intelligence to curb the use of Chinese-made engines in small boats crossing the Channel.

Starmer said relations were now in “a strong place,” describing his meeting with Xi as warm and constructive.