British Prime Minister Keir Starmer embraced Shanghai’s cultural charm yesterday, braving the rain to explore the iconic Yuyuan Garden during his four-day China trip. 🌧️ The leader, who earlier met with officials in Beijing, cheerfully used Chinese currency to buy butterfly pastries at the garden’s marketplace—a moment that instantly went viral among locals. 🦋
His visit echoed a historic 1986 stop by Queen Elizabeth II at Yuyuan’s Huxinting Teahouse, underscoring the garden’s role as a silent witness to UK-China exchanges. With over 400 years of history, Yuyuan’s lantern-lit pathways and bustling shops now blend tradition with global appeal, drawing travelers and diplomats alike. 🏮
Starmer’s lighthearted gesture—snapping selfies with vendors—resonated with young netizens, who dubbed him the 'Pastry PM.' Meanwhile, analysts highlight the trip’s timing amid renewed focus on UK-Asia economic ties. 💼
