A trade deal between the US and UK could be on the horizon, as President Donald Trump expressed optimism during a joint press conference with Sir Keir Starmer. Trump mentioned that a trade deal could happen “very quickly,” potentially allowing the UK to avoid tariffs that the US has been threatening on other trading partners.
The prime minister’s visit to the White House was a significant moment in Sir Keir’s premiership, as he aimed to influence Trump’s decisions on various topics, including Ukraine and trade. The visit began with Sir Keir presenting Trump with a letter from King Charles inviting him to an unprecedented second state visit to the UK. Trump graciously accepted the invitation, calling it a “great honor” and praising the King as “a wonderful man.”
During a 30-minute press conference, Trump and Sir Keir discussed a range of issues, including the possibility of a Ukraine deal and the UK’s potential agreement with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands. Sir Keir reiterated his willingness to send British troops to Ukraine as part of a peace deal but emphasized the need for US security guarantees to prevent Russian aggression.
The UK’s planned agreement with Mauritius over the Chagos Islands was a potential point of tension between the UK and US leaders. However, Trump appeared to support the UK’s approach, indicating he was “inclined to go along with it.” The deal would involve the UK ceding sovereignty of the archipelago while maintaining control over the strategically important Diego Garcia island.
Trump repeatedly highlighted the potential for a US-UK trade deal, which he believed could be agreed upon “very quickly.” Sir Keir mentioned focusing on an economic agreement centered around artificial intelligence, emphasizing the opportunities presented by new technologies. Both leaders expressed a commitment to fostering innovation and economic growth through collaboration.
Despite previous setbacks in trade negotiations, both leaders seemed optimistic about the prospect of a mutually beneficial trade deal. Trump’s past threats of tariffs on allies, including the EU, raised concerns, but Sir Keir emphasized the importance of a fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade relationship between the US and UK.
Overall, the discussions between Trump and Sir Keir laid the groundwork for potential future trade agreements and collaborations in various sectors. The positive tone of the meetings and the shared commitment to economic growth bode well for the future relationship between the US and UK.
