What country's Prime Minister, Kier Starmer, visited China in January 2026 to reset relations and boost economic ties?

The Prime Minister who visited China in January 2026 to reset relations and boost economic ties was Kier Starmer, the leader of the United Kingdom. Sir Keir Starmer became Prime Minister on July 5, 2024, and his trip to China from January 28 to 31, 2026, marked the first visit by a British Prime Minister to the country in eight years, with the last being by Theresa May in January 2018.

The visit aimed for a "pragmatic reset" of the relationship between the two nations, which had experienced periods of strain. Accompanied by a delegation of business and cultural representatives, Prime Minister Starmer met with senior Chinese leaders, including President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang, to discuss enhancing dialogue and cooperation. The discussions focused on areas such as trade, investment, climate, and security, with notable outcomes including agreements covering artificial intelligence, car making, clean energy, and finance.

This high-level engagement sought to unlock significant economic opportunities for British businesses, with reports of substantial export and market access deals. Beyond economic benefits, the visit also signaled a desire to find common ground on global challenges like climate change and managing the risks of artificial intelligence, reflecting a nuanced approach to international diplomacy in a changing global landscape. The trip underscored the United Kingdom's commitment to maintaining communication and strengthening cooperation with China, recognizing its role as the world's second-largest economy and a critical partner in global stability.