Keir Starmer has downplayed the recent criticism from Donald Trump following the US President’s strong disapproval of the UK’s efforts to strengthen ties with China.

During a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the importance of engaging with China, citing Trump’s upcoming visit to Beijing later this year as a parallel example. The discussions between Starmer and Jinping lasted nearly three hours, resulting in an agreement to deepen the alliance between the UK and China.

In response to Trump’s comments branding the UK’s engagement with China as “very dangerous,” Starmer, while speaking in Shanghai, suggested that Trump’s remarks seemed more targeted at Canada than the UK. Starmer also noted that Trump himself is expected to visit China in April.

When pressed about Trump’s specific mention of the UK, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the longstanding trade history between the UK and China, stressing the benefits of expanding this relationship to create wealth and jobs within the UK. He highlighted the importance of addressing the cost of living for UK citizens and the economic significance of China as the world’s second-largest economy.

Additionally, UK trade minister Sir Chris Bryant expressed strong support for engaging with China, calling it “absolutely bonkers” not to do so. Refuting Trump’s comments, Sir Chris emphasized the importance of maintaining constructive relationships with China, especially given Trump’s own friendly ties with President Xi and his upcoming visit to China.

Overall, the UK government remains steadfast in its commitment to enhancing economic ties with China for the mutual benefit of both nations.