Sir Keir Starmer, the UK Prime Minister, is preparing for his second visit to the United States since assuming office in July 2024. The White House has confirmed that Starmer will meet with President Joe Biden in Washington DC on September 13, 2024, just two months before the US presidential election.
This upcoming meeting marks the second bilateral discussion between the two leaders since Starmer's election victory. Their initial encounter occurred during the NATO summit shortly after Starmer took office, highlighting the importance of the US-UK alliance that has been a cornerstone of international relations since World War II.
The timing of this visit is significant, considering recent political developments in both nations. In the US, President Biden has announced his decision not to seek re-election, citing health concerns. Vice President Kamala Harris has been named as the Democratic Party's candidate for the upcoming presidential race.
According to White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, the leaders will engage in comprehensive discussions on various global issues. Key topics on the agenda include:
- Continued support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression
- Efforts to secure a hostage release and ceasefire in Gaza
- Protection of international shipping in the Red Sea from Iranian-backed Houthi threats
- Advancement of a free and open Indo-Pacific region
The meeting will also focus on strengthening US-UK cooperation, particularly in areas such as supply chain security and climate resilience. This aligns with the longstanding "Special Relationship" between the two nations, a term coined by Winston Churchill in 1946.
"President Biden will underscore the importance of continuing to strengthen the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom."
It's worth noting that the US-UK partnership extends beyond political and military cooperation. The UK is the largest foreign investor in the US economy, while the US serves as the UK's largest single export market. Both countries are also permanent members of the UN Security Council and share intelligence through the Five Eyes alliance.
Starmer's visit to Washington follows recent trips to Berlin and Paris, demonstrating his commitment to reinforcing relationships with key European allies. These diplomatic efforts come at a crucial time as the UK navigates its post-Brexit international role.
As the meeting approaches, observers will be keen to see how Starmer and Biden address shared challenges and opportunities, building upon a relationship that has shaped global affairs for decades.