The Chancellor of the Exchequer spoke with China's Vice Premier He Lifeng on Thursday 8 October 2026, according to a HM Treasury news story published on 13 October 2026. The chancellor reaffirmed that the UK would take a consistent, long-term and strategic approach to relations with China, rooted in UK and global interests.

According to the readout, both affirmed a commitment to pragmatic cooperation supporting economic growth and financial stability, and agreed on the importance of the relationship across trade, investment and financial services. The chancellor said he looked forward to welcoming the Vice Premier to London for the next Economic and Financial Dialogue.

As G20 members, they discussed working together to support the international financial system and address global economic challenges. The chancellor said he would engage frankly and constructively on issues that matter for the UK, and raised macroeconomic imbalances and Russia's war in Ukraine. They committed to maintaining dialogue on mutual economic and financial priorities.