UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently visited China, marking the first visit by a British premier in eight years. During his historic four-day trip to Beijing and Shanghai, Starmer held extensive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who shared the ancient parable of "the blind men and an elephant."

Speaking to business leaders, Starmer recounted Xi's story: "One person touched the elephant's leg and thought it was a pillow. Another touched its belly and believed it was a wall." Starmer interpreted this as reflecting the world's fragmented understanding of China. He expressed confidence that deeper cooperation, a key theme of his discussions throughout the week, would foster a more comprehensive view and build a nuanced relationship appropriate for the current era.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer (left) and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing on 29/1. Photo: AP

Starmer met President Xi Jinping and other Chinese officials on 29/1. Their talks in Beijing lasted about three hours, exceeding the initial schedule, according to the UK Prime Minister's Office. President Xi reportedly conveyed to Starmer that both nations should "enhance dialogue and cooperation."

During their encounter, the UK leader presented President Xi with a football from a recent match between Arsenal, Starmer's favored club, and Manchester United, a team President Xi is said to support. President Xi, known for his early passion for world literature, also discussed the renowned English writer William Shakespeare, Starmer noted.

Prime Minister Starmer highlighted the benefits his visit would bring to the British people, including a new visa exemption program for UK citizens allowing stays of under 30 days in China. A spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed on 30/1 that this program would become effective "at an appropriate time after completing necessary procedures," without providing a specific date. Starmer also encouraged business leaders in his delegation to pursue cooperation opportunities in China, emphasizing that such ventures must ultimately benefit the United Kingdom.