As UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer concludes his four-day visit to China this week, business leaders highlight growing economic synergies between the two nations. During the January 28-31 diplomatic mission, both sides signed four new economic and trade cooperation agreements spanning green energy, financial services, and technology innovation.
"Our shared values in sustainable development and fair trade create natural partnership opportunities," said Keith Bennett, vice chairman of the 48 Group, in an interview with CGTN. "These agreements represent more than commerce – they're bridges for mutual understanding in an increasingly multipolar world."
The visit marks Starmer's first major economic diplomacy initiative in 2026, coming amid renewed European interest in Asian markets. Analysts note the agreements align with China's dual circulation strategy while offering UK firms expanded access to renewable energy projects in the Chinese mainland.
This development follows recent efforts to streamline cross-border investment processes, with bilateral trade volume reaching £92 billion in 2025 according to UK government statistics. Observers suggest the agreements could position both nations as key players in shaping next-generation trade standards.
