Jack Perry Junior Photo: Courtesy of Perry

　　The China-UK bilateral economic and trade relationship is regaining momentum in a realistic and constructive way, with strong cooperation opportunities lying in sectors such as high technology, life sciences, clean energy, advanced manufacturing, financial services, and education, Jack Perry Junior, chairman of the 48 Group Club and CEO of London Export Corp (LEC), told the Global Times in an interview on Tuesday.

　　A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson announced on Tuesday that UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will pay an official visit to China from Wednesday to Saturday.

　　Starmer"s visit is an opportunity to restore rhythm and confidence in engagement with China, Perry said, noting that the most important outcome will not be a single statement, but the re-establishment of regular, serious communication at senior levels.

　　"If managed well, the visit can help create the conditions for broader participation. Not just for the companies and institutions that have worked with China for many years, but also for businesses and organizations that are now looking at China and asking how to engage responsibly and productively," he said.

　　Despite abrupt changes in the external environment and mounting domestic difficulties and challenges in 2025, China"s economy posted 5 percent growth to reach a record 140.1879 trillion yuan ($20.01 trillion) last year, according to data released by China"s National Bureau of Statistics.

　　"China"s economic performance in 2025 reflects resilience built on long-term planning. Growth at this scale, under global pressure, is not accidental. It shows institutional capacity and an ability to adjust while maintaining strategic direction," Perry said, highlighting the composition of China"s stable growth.