Chinese President Xi Jinping and British Prime Minister Andy Burnham held their first phone conversation since Burnham’s appointment in July, emphasizing the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation amid a complex international environment.
During the call on Tuesday, Xi congratulated Burnham and highlighted the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and the United Kingdom. Acknowledging differences in social systems and national conditions, Xi stressed that the two countries share broader common interests, especially in economic development and improving people’s livelihoods. He emphasized the potential for expanding cooperation in sectors such as education, healthcare, and finance during China’s upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030).
Xi also underscored the need for China and the UK to maintain an open and forward-looking approach to collaboration in science, technology, culture, and sports. He called on the UK to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese investors as part of fostering a mutually beneficial economic relationship.
On multilateral affairs, Xi highlighted that both countries are permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major global economies that support multilateralism, open trade, and the central role of the UN. He advocated for joint efforts within international frameworks such as the UN, G20, and World Trade Organization to promote an equitable multipolar world and inclusive economic globalization.
Burnham responded positively to Xi’s comments, recalling his past engagement with China during his tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester, a period marked by extensive exchanges with Chinese counterparts. He referenced Xi’s 2015 state visit to the UK, including a visit to Manchester, as a foundation for enhanced local and bilateral cooperation.
The British prime minister affirmed the UK’s commitment to maintaining continuity in its China policy and developing a durable, long-term comprehensive strategic partnership. Burnham expressed readiness to advance high-level dialogues, deepen cooperation across various sectors, and strengthen people-to-people connections to restore relations to a historically high level, benefiting both nations.
Regarding sensitive geopolitical issues, Burnham reiterated the UK’s unchanged stance on the Taiwan question. He also emphasized the role China and the UK could play, as permanent Security Council members, in promoting dialogue to resolve international conflicts and jointly address global challenges such as climate change.
Additionally, Burnham praised China’s prompt response to a recent mudslide in Gyirong county in the Xizang autonomous region and thanked the Chinese government for assisting British citizens affected by the disaster.
Both leaders agreed to maintain ongoing communication and continue dialogue on shared priorities, according to a statement issued by the British Prime Minister’s Office.