Whisky, visas, partnership and more: What China, UK achieved during Starmer’s visit

In a significant diplomatic reset, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to China—the first by a UK leader in eight years—has resulted in an agreement to forge a long-term comprehensive strategic partnership. Key outcomes include China’s decision to halve import tariffs on British whisky to 5 percent and the active consideration of a unilateral visa waiver for UK citizens. The two nations also signed 12 intergovernmental cooperation agreements covering sectors from trade to law enforcement.

The mission further re-established critical institutional links, including the resumption of high-level security dialogues and the launch of a partnership to address climate and nature. With plans to hold new strategic and economic dialogues later this year, both sides have signaled a commitment to strengthening two-way investment, bolstered by the expansion of RMB clearing services in London and the creation of a new China-UK Financial Working Group.

Credit : CGTN