Joe Biden has shown support for Keir Starmer’s goal of strengthening the UK’s relationship with the European Union during their first bilateral talks at the White House. Biden emphasized the importance of the UK-US alliance, referring to the UK as the “knot” that ties the transatlantic relationship together and suggesting that a closer relationship between the UK and Europe would tighten this knot.
Biden has been vocal about his concerns over Brexit, particularly its potential impact on peace in Northern Ireland.
During the NATO summit in Washington, Starmer reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to the alliance and to supporting Ukraine. He pledged to continue providing at least £3 billion annually in military support to Kyiv in its conflict with Russia.
Joe Biden and Keir Starmer Strengthen Transatlantic Ties and Discuss NATO Commitments
Alongside his NATO commitments, Starmer is also working to strengthen relationships with European leaders and seeking to establish an EU-UK security pact. He was joined on his trip by Nick Thomas-Symonds, his minister for European relations.
Starmer congratulated Biden on hosting the 75th anniversary of the NATO summit, highlighting the importance of a strong and resolute NATO. He emphasized the enduring and strengthened “special relationship” between the US and the UK, expressing his commitment to NATO and the transatlantic alliance.
Despite the significance of this meeting, it was carefully choreographed due to concerns about Biden’s health and the upcoming American election.
During their meeting, Biden and Starmer also discussed lighter topics, including the England football team’s recent victory.
Biden joked about Starmer’s viewing of the match with the Dutch prime minister, while Starmer presented Biden with an Arsenal football shirt and a framed copy of the original Atlantic Charter, symbolizing the historical ties between their nations. The exchange highlighted a friendly rapport between the leaders.
After their talks, the Bidens hosted a dinner for Starmer, his wife Victoria, and other NATO leaders and their partners at the White House. This event served to further solidify the bonds between the US and the UK, as well as with other NATO allies, emphasizing the importance of their continued cooperation and mutual support in addressing global challenges.
