• China's Vice-Premier He Lifeng urges for stronger ties with Britain in finance, AI, and biotech.
• The China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue resumes after a six-year hiatus.
• UK's Chancellor Rachel Reeves highlights the importance of a balanced relationship with China.
• China's Ministry of Commerce outlines measures to stabilize foreign trade and attract investment.
• Trade between China and the UK rose to US$89.3 billion, emphasizing their economic interdependence.

In a bid to strengthen economic relations, Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng has called for enhanced cooperation with the UK in sectors such as financial services, biomedicine, and artificial intelligence. This meeting coincided with the 11th China-UK Economic and Financial Dialogue, which was co-hosted by British finance minister Rachel Reeves in Beijing. The dialogue marks a significant step forward as it resumes after a hiatus of nearly six years caused by strained ties over various issues, including human rights and security concerns. He emphasized that a mutually beneficial economic relationship could serve as a "stabilizing anchor" for both nations in light of recent tensions ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294384/china-calls-closer-financial-ties-britain-both-sides-seek-reset)).

Reeves made historical visits to China, being the most senior British government official to do so since October. She underscored the UK's necessity to maintain a candid approach regarding their differences while focusing on potential collaboration. "As we continue to strengthen our financial relationship, it is crucial that we work together even closer on regulatory cooperation,” she stated. Her sentiments echoed the growing need for bilateral engagement to mitigate economic risks and foster growth, especially amid reinforcing relations with global markets ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294453/china-vows-all-out-efforts-trade-and-fdi-fresh-bid-kick-start-economy)).

During the dialogue, it was highlighted that Britain is China's fourth largest trading partner, with bilateral trade figures showing a modest rise. According to Chinese customs data, trade reached US$89.3 billion in the first 11 months of 2024. He pointed out that despite their differences, the two countries share substantial economic interests that can facilitate collaboration in sectors like clean energy and biotechnology.

Amidst these discussions, China aims to stabilize its foreign trade and attract foreign direct investment, particularly as the nation navigates a cooling economy exacerbated by external pressures. The Ministry of Commerce has laid out comprehensive strategies for 2025, aiming to open up China’s markets, foster international cooperation, and safeguard national security ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294453/china-vows-all-out-efforts-trade-and-fdi-fresh-bid-kick-start-economy)). They plan to increase focus on domestic consumption and integrate better with international trade practices.

Both Reeves and He agree that the potential for collaboration remains vast. Significantly, Reeves has emphasized the UK's role as a natural hub for Chinese financial services and investments—a platform from which China can expand globally. Following the recent dialogue, several agreements were reportedly reached to facilitate further economic engagement, marking a possible turning point in their diplomatic and economic relations ([SCMP](https://www.scmp.com/news/china/diplomacy/article/3294384/china-calls-closer-financial-ties-britain-both-sides-seek-reset)).

Looking ahead, as both countries face uncertainty regarding global trade policies and pressures from the United States, the cooperative dynamic established in these recent talks may be crucial for navigating the challenges that lie ahead.