China’s Xi advises UK he plans to see a united EU

Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the United Kingdom for four days. He met Prime Minister David Cameron and many other leaders. During the trip he made a clear statement about Europe.

Xi’s direct comment on the European Union

Xi told Cameron that China wants a “prosperous Europe and a united EU”. He said the EU is a strategic partner for China. The EU is also China’s biggest trading partner. The foreign ministry rewrote Xi’s words as follows: “China would like to see a prosperous Europe and a united EU, and trusts Britain, as a vital individual from the EU, can play a significantly more positive and helpful part in advancing the extending improvement of China‑EU ties.”

These were Xi’s most direct remarks about Britain’s relationship with Europe. He made the comments at the British Prime Minister’s official residence, known as Downing Street, late on Thursday.

Why China cares about a united EU

China usually does not comment on other countries’ votes. It calls such matters internal affairs. However, Beijing is worried about two things. First, it worries that a split EU could hurt trade with Britain. Second, it sees a strong EU as a balance to the United States.

Recent polls show that support for staying in the EU is falling among British voters. One poll on Thursday showed a sharp drop in support for the EU. Some voters are worried about a large flow of migrants into Europe. These concerns are part of the reason the UK is planning a referendum before the end of 2017.

UK plans to attract Chinese investment

During the same visit, Cameron showed how the UK wants Chinese money. He led Xi on a tour of Manchester. Manchester is a city in the north of England. The city hopes to get Chinese money for new projects.

The UK has announced about £40 billion of business deals linked to the visit. England also has the highest number of Chinese visa applications of any country. This shows strong interest from Chinese businesses.

Critics say the UK is ignoring human‑rights concerns in its push for Chinese money. They worry that the UK is focusing too much on money and not enough on values.

Part of the plan is to bring £24 billion of Chinese investment to the north of England. The north has been slower to grow compared with the richer south‑east. The new money is meant to help the north catch up.

New Manchester‑China flight and other projects

On the last day of his visit, Xi announced a new air link. Hainan Airlines will start non‑stop flights between Manchester and China. The UK says the new route could add £50 million to Manchester’s economy.

Xi also visited a football foundation run by Manchester City. He went to the National Football Museum. He toured the city’s airport and met local business leaders.

During the visit, a partnership was signed to help rebuild parts of Manchester. The deal includes the £85 million purchase of education‑technology firm Promethean World by Hong Kong company Netdragon Websoft.

What the EU and the UK can gain

• Stronger trade: A united EU means smoother trade for China and the UK.
• Investment boost: Chinese money can help rebuild northern cities.
• Better travel: Direct flights make business trips easier.
• Political balance: A stable EU can act as a counter‑weight to US influence.

FAQ

What did Xi say about the EU?

He said China wants a prosperous and united European Union and hopes Britain will help improve China‑EU ties.

Why is the UK holding a referendum on EU membership?

The UK wants to decide if it should stay in or leave the EU. The vote is planned before the end of 2017.

How much Chinese investment is the UK expecting?

The UK expects about £40 billion in deals, with £24 billion aimed at projects in the north of England.

What new travel link was announced?

Hainan Airlines will start non‑stop flights between Manchester and China, which could add £50 million to the city’s economy.

Xi’s visit shows that China cares about a strong, united Europe. It also shows that the UK is eager for Chinese investment and new travel links. The statements and deals made during the trip could shape trade, politics, and travel for years to come.