U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasized the need for a stable and constructive relationship with China as he met with President Xi Jinping on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Brazil. The meeting marked the first direct engagement between a British leader and Xi in years, following strained relations over security issues, human rights concerns, and China’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Since taking office in July after a landslide Labour Party victory, Starmer has sought to recalibrate the U.K.’s approach to Beijing. The last time a British prime minister met with Xi was in 2018.

“A Relationship Built on Stability and Respect”

During their discussion in Rio de Janeiro, Starmer expressed his desire for a “consistent, durable, and respectful” relationship with China, aiming to minimize unexpected tensions.

Downing Street later described the prime minister’s approach as “pragmatic,” highlighting areas of cooperation such as economic growth, global stability, and tackling climate change.

Difficult Conversations: Hong Kong and Human Rights

Alongside economic and environmental collaboration, Starmer did not shy away from contentious issues. He raised concerns over the detention of Jimmy Lai, a British citizen and pro-democracy publisher from Hong Kong, who has been in custody since December 2020 under China’s national security law. Lai, 76, faces the possibility of life imprisonment.

As Starmer brought up Lai’s case, journalists were ushered out of the meeting room, according to Britain’s Press Association.

A Downing Street statement later confirmed that Starmer had engaged in a “frank and honest” discussion with Xi, addressing Hong Kong, human rights, and China’s position on Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Xi Calls for Stronger UK-China Cooperation

Despite ongoing diplomatic challenges, Xi Jinping signaled openness to strengthening ties, stating that both nations could benefit from deepening political trust and expanding areas of cooperation, according to China’s state-run Xinhua news agency.

The meeting followed a recent visit to Beijing by U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi to discuss bilateral issues last month.

As Britain navigates its evolving relationship with China, Starmer’s balanced approach—seeking engagement while addressing key disagreements—marks a shift in UK foreign policy.