China has announced a new visa policy allowing British citizens to enter the country without a visa for stays of up to 30 days, marking a major step in renewed diplomatic and economic engagement between Beijing and London. The decision was unveiled during high-level talks between Chinese President Xi Jinping and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Beijing.
The move follows a series of bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening cooperation in areas such as security, trade, education and efforts to curb transnational crime and illegal immigration. Okay News reports that the British government confirmed the visa relaxation will apply to short-term travel for business and tourism, removing a long-standing requirement for UK nationals visiting China.
The meeting, which lasted about 80 minutes, was Starmer’s first official visit to China since taking office and the first by a British prime minister in eight years. During the talks, President Xi urged both countries to uphold multilateralism and free trade, warning that global order could weaken if major powers fail to respect international law. He also called for deeper collaboration in sectors including artificial intelligence, healthcare, finance, renewable energy and low-carbon technology.
Chinese officials said both sides agreed to pursue a long-term, stable strategic partnership. Discussions also covered sensitive issues such as Taiwan, Hong Kong and the war in Ukraine, with London reaffirming its long-standing positions. In a lighter moment, Starmer reportedly presented Xi with a football used in a recent English Premier League match, reflecting shared interest in sports.
China and the UK signed 10 cooperation agreements covering areas such as services trade, food safety, vocational education, sports industries and economic coordination. The new visa-free policy adds to China’s broader effort to boost international travel, as the country continues to reopen its borders and attract foreign visitors after years of restrictions.
