Summary
A group of UK mayors and their deputies visited China, marking the largest British civic mission to the country in recent times. This trip focused on rekindling diplomatic and trade relations, with discussions on business cooperation and climate talks. The visit is seen as a shift towards improving ties between the UK and China after years of strained relations.
Key Facts
- A delegation of UK mayors and deputies visited China in March, marking the biggest British civic visit to China in modern history.
- The group traveled to several southern Chinese cities and met with local Chinese leaders and technology companies.
- Approximately six deals were signed during the visit, including a new UK headquarters for Chinese energy company EcoFlow in Birmingham.
- The visit aimed to rebuild diplomatic and trade relations between the UK and China.
- This shift echoes the "golden era" of UK-China relations in the early 2010s when economic relations were a key focus.
- Chancellor Rachel Reeves co-chaired the first UK-China economic summit since 2019, aiming to boost the UK economy by engaging with China.
- Energy Secretary Ed Miliband resumed climate talks with China to address joint environmental concerns.
