Xi Jinping and Keir Starmer Discuss Broader Cooperation Areas

Chinese President Xi Jinping and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed enhancing cooperation in finance, the green economy, and artificial intelligence. Xi expressed hope that Britain would view China objectively. This conversation follows strained relations during the previous Conservative government and calls for a relationship audit by Starmer's administration.

Chinese President Xi Jinping and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer discussed enhancing cooperation in key sectors like finance, the green economy, and artificial intelligence during a phone call on Friday, according to Chinese state media.

Xi congratulated Starmer on the Labour Party's election victory in July. The call, which Chinese state media reported was requested by Britain, lacked immediate confirmation from London.

Starmer's government announced plans to audit the UK's relationship with China to navigate the challenges and opportunities posed by Beijing. Previous ties had been strained under the Conservative government due to issues related to Hong Kong, human rights accusations, and Chinese involvement in critical infrastructure projects.

(With inputs from agencies.)