AdvertisementBut he also said the closer ties would enable Britain to engage in “frank dialogue” when there was disagreement. Xi said China was ready to develop a long-term partnership with Britain following “twists and turns” in the relationship that did not serve the interests of either country. AdvertisementUnder them, Britain curbed some Chinese investment over national security worries and expressed concern over a crackdown on political freedoms in Hong Kong. British security services say China routinely spies on the government. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer speaks during a news conference at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026.