WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump has warned the United Kingdom against expanding business ties with China, saying such engagement could be “very dangerous.” He made the remarks on Thursday while speaking to reporters in Washington, issuing a similar warning to Canada and describing its relations with China as “even more dangerous.”
Trump’s comments came shortly after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer concluded a three-day visit to China, the first by a British leader in eight years. During the visit, Starmer held extended talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing, which he described as warm and constructive.
The British prime minister announced several measures aimed at strengthening UK–China economic relations, including visa-free travel for British citizens to China for up to 30 days, reduced tariffs on Scotch whisky, and expanded market access for UK companies. Speaking at a business forum in Beijing, Starmer said Britain seeks a stronger and more pragmatic relationship with China while maintaining close ties with the United States, adding that the UK does not need to choose sides in the US-China rivalry.
UK-China relations have previously been strained over issues such as human rights and Hong Kong. Trump’s warning underscores continued US concerns over allies deepening commercial engagement with China, despite Trump himself planning a visit to China in April 2026 and previously describing President Xi Jinping as a friend.
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