Starmer Pledges ‘Robust’ Approach Towards China Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to adopt a “robust” approach in dealing with China, while emphasizing the need for cooperation in areas of mutual interest. In a speech at the Chatham House think tank in London, Starmer outlined his vision for Labour’s China policy, which he believes should strike a balance between engagement and assertiveness. “We need to be robust in standing up for our values and interests,” Starmer said. “But we also need to be realistic about the scale of the challenges we face and the importance of cooperation where it is possible.” The Labour leader criticized the current government’s approach as being “too hawkish,” arguing that it had damaged relations with China without achieving any significant benefits. He said that Labour would instead pursue a “principled, pragmatic” foreign policy that would put human rights, the rule of law, and economic interests at the forefront. Starmer also highlighted areas where cooperation with China could be beneficial, such as climate change, trade, and scientific research. He stressed the importance of building a “strong and cooperative relationship” with China, but one that was based on “mutual respect and shared interests.” The Labour leader’s remarks come amid heightened tensions between the United Kingdom and China over issues such as Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang. The Conservative government has taken a more confrontational stance towards China, while Labour has argued for a more balanced approach. Starmer’s speech signals a shift in Labour’s China policy, moving away from the more conciliatory stance of former leader Jeremy Corbyn. It remains to be seen whether Labour’s “robust” approach will prove to be more effective in managing the challenges posed by the rise of China.Starmer outlines robust approach to China relations In a speech to the Royal United Services Institute, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer vowed to adopt a “robust” approach in dealing with China while also seeking areas of cooperation. Starmer stated that China posed “a systemic challenge to our values and interests,” citing its human rights abuses, economic coercion, and military aggression. He emphasized the need for the UK to respond with a strategy that was both “principled and pragmatic.” He called for a “robust defense” of human rights in China, including support for the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong and scrutiny of the treatment of Uyghur Muslims in Xinjiang province. He also pledged to work with allies to counter China’s economic coercion and military expansionism in the Indo-Pacific region. However, Starmer acknowledged the importance of cooperation with China in areas of mutual interest, such as climate change, nuclear non-proliferation, and global health. He emphasized that the UK should not seek to “decouple” from China, but rather engage with it “from a position of strength.” “We must not be naive about the challenges posed by China,” Starmer said. “But neither should we retreat into isolationism or confrontation. We must find a way to engage with China in a way that protects our values and interests while also seeking areas of cooperation.” Starmer’s speech was welcomed by some commentators, who praised his willingness to take a tough stance on China while also recognizing the importance of dialogue. However, others criticized his position, arguing that it was too conciliatory and failed to address the full extent of the threat posed by China.