China and Britain — Thawing ties, underlying tensions

China and Britain — Thawing ties, underlying tensions

From China In Context by SOAS China Institute

February 3, 2026 · 42 min · Season 6 · Episode 202

About this episode

The episode discusses the recent diplomatic efforts between China and Britain, highlighting both progress and ongoing tensions.

Sir Keir Starmer described his recent trip to China as a chance to end the ‘ice age’ in the two countries’ ties and build a more ‘sophisticated’ relationship. But despite the announcement of visa free-travel to China for British visitors, and the lifting of sanctions on six British MPs and peers, Starmer has been criticised by political opponents for failing to secure the release of publisher and British citizen Jimmy Lai, recently found guilty of sedition and national security offences in Ho...

Topics covered

  • China-Britain relations
  • political diplomacy
  • international travel
  • human rights
  • political criticism

Keywords

  • China
  • Britain
  • diplomacy
  • visa free-travel
  • Jimmy Lai
  • political criticism
  • Keir Starmer

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: China, Britain, British

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