After completing his three-day trip in Beijing, British Prime Minister Starmer arrived in Shanghai on the afternoon of the 30th to continue his visit to China. That evening, he attended a reception in Shanghai, stating that Shanghai is a city full of economic vitality, which is also a key focus of his visit. In an interview with the media, he said: "I know how to use chopsticks and am quite experienced." He also revealed that he has a LABUBU doll at home.
●High Praise for Butterfly Pastry
Starmer arrived at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport by special plane on the afternoon of the 30th, marking his first visit to Shanghai since taking office. Starmer and his delegation then visited the famous Yuyuan Garden to enjoy lantern displays and personally purchased local snacks at a restaurant beside the Nine-Turn Bridge. Starmer paid for a box of butterfly pastries himself, handing over a 100 yuan note. He smiled and showed the butterfly pastries to the camera, saying, "Take a bite, and you'll feel happiness!" Starmer also visited Huxinting Teahouse, which was visited by the late Queen Elizabeth II during her 1986 trip to China. The teahouse, established in 1784, is known as "Shanghai's First Teahouse." There, he met with Shanghai students responsible for making lanterns inside the store.
In the evening, he attended a reception in Shanghai and said: "We are very pleased to be here tonight. We have created opportunities for cooperation and resolved issues between the two countries. The results are already beginning to show. We have welcomed an outstanding delegation from the UK, with representatives from around 80 top British enterprises and cultural institutions, all gathered here this evening. I think the atmosphere has changed, and opportunities are emerging. This is not only reflected in business cooperation but also in cultural exchanges among creative individuals."
According to Sky News on the 30th, Starmer was interviewed by several media outlets in Shanghai. He told the media: "I know how to use chopsticks and am quite experienced."
The British delegation had previously dined at a Yunnan restaurant in Beijing. The head chef said that the restaurant prepared knives and forks, but the entire group of 140 delegates used chopsticks, and not a single person requested knives and forks. Everyone, including Starmer, was adept at using chopsticks.
When asked if he was familiar with LABUBU, Starmer replied, "I know. In fact, I have a small LABUBU doll myself. However, I don't think it will last very long with my kids."