The UK has intensified private discussions to strengthen financial services ties with Hong Kong, deploying Treasury officials in late 2024 to explore economic cooperation. The talks reflect the Labour government’s push for economic growth while balancing democratic principles amid strained UK-China relations. Disagreements over Hong Kong’s security law, China’s sanctions on British lawmakers, and UK allegations of Chinese cyberattacks have weighed on ties. The move follows a broader diplomatic thaw under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi set to meet UK officials in London. Chancellor Rachel Reeves previously visited Beijing and Shanghai in January. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Christopher Hui, has made multiple trips to Europe, including the UK, since 2020.