Following a recent deterioration in relations, the meeting was the first in-person encounter between a UK prime minister and the Chinese president since 2018.
Sir Keir brought up the subject of Jimmy Lai, a jailed pro-democracy activist from Hong Kong, expressing worry over allegations of a “deterioration” in his health.
Additionally, the PM expressed a want for increased business collaboration, specifically in “areas of mutual cooperation” including economic growth, climate change, and international stability.
At the beginning of his meeting with President Xi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Sir Keir stated: “We want our relations to be consistent, durable, respectful, as we have agreed, avoid surprises where possible.”
