Prime Minister Starmer met with US President Joe Biden during his visit, with the two leaders emphasising the need to further strengthen the “special relationship” between the UK and the US. President Biden described the UK as the “transatlantic hub” of the NATO alliance and said that the UK’s role is central to NATO. Prime Minister Starmer said the UK had an “unwavering and unwavering commitment” to NATO, and would also lead the way in supporting Ukraine.
Prime Minister Starmer announced that the UK would increase its defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, and 3% by 2035. He called it “the largest sustained defence investment since the Cold War”. The decision comes in the wake of pressure from US President Donald Trump on NATO allies to increase defence spending.
Prime Minister Starmer attended a summit marking the 75th anniversary of NATO during his visit, where he stressed the UK’s active presence in global politics. He said that “Britain has a right to its own presence on the world stage” and that Britain’s role in strengthening NATO is important.
During the visit, the White House announced that Britain would be exempt from 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum, which was made possible under a trade agreement. The agreement is welcome for the British steel industry, as it will help to stabilize the economy and protect jobs.