In a significant diplomatic engagement, the newly elected Prime Minister of the United Kingdom Keir Starmer spoke with US President Joe Biden this afternoon. The call marked one of the Prime Minister’s first international communications since his recent election victory.

President Biden opened the conversation by extending his congratulations to the Prime Minister on his electoral success. The Prime Minister expressed his gratitude for the President’s warm wishes, setting a positive tone for their discussion.

Central to their dialogue was a reaffirmation of the longstanding “special relationship” between the United Kingdom and the United States. Both leaders underlined their shared commitment to this historic alliance and discussed aligned ambitions for fostering greater economic growth in both nations.

The conversation then turned to pressing geopolitical issues. The leaders reiterated their unwavering support for Ukraine, with the Prime Minister underscoring that the UK’s commitment remains steadfast in the face of ongoing challenges.

Looking towards future cooperation, the Prime Minister expressed eagerness to work closely with the US across various fronts. Particular mention was made of the AUKUS partnership and joint efforts to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The leaders also reflected on their shared commitment to preserving the gains achieved through the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement.

The call concluded with both leaders anticipating their upcoming face-to-face meeting at the NATO Summit in Washington next week, where they will have the opportunity to further discuss these critical issues and strengthen the transatlantic alliance.

This conversation underscores the continuing importance of UK-US relations and sets a cooperative tone for the new British government’s engagement with its key ally across the Atlantic.