Story perspectives

Starmer's China Visit: Business Delegation Amid Controversy

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

Keir Starmer plans to visit China next week and lead a delegation of British companies, including BP and HSBC.
The visit follows the dropping of espionage charges against two men linked to Beijing.
Local residents are challenging the embassy's planning decision, alleging insufficient consideration of evidence.
China's foreign ministry stated that the embassy's planning complies with international laws.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced £600 million in investments during her China visit.

History

Historical Context

The Sino-British Joint Declaration, signed on December 19, 1984, by Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and Premier Zhao Ziyang, established the framework for Hong Kong's return to China on July 1, 1997. This agreement promised to uphold Hong Kong's capitalist system under the "one country, two systems" principle for 50 years, shaping ongoing diplomatic relations and economic ties between the UK and China.

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Story summary

Keir Starmer plans to visit China next week and lead a delegation of British companies, including BP and HSBC.
The visit follows the dropping of espionage charges against two men linked to Beijing.
Local residents are challenging the embassy's planning decision, alleging insufficient consideration of evidence.
China's foreign ministry stated that the embassy's planning complies with international laws.
Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced £600 million in investments during her China visit.

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