Trump, Starmer set to strengthen US-UK tech ties with new economic deal

US and UK are set to begin discussions on a new economic agreement centred around advanced technology, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said following talks with US President Donald Trump on February 27.

“We are the only two Western nations with trillion-dollar technology sectors,” Starmer stated, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

“Both countries are at the forefront of artificial intelligence, and we share a similar outlook on these emerging technologies. Rather than imposing excessive regulations, we are focused on harnessing the opportunities they present.”

Starmer highlighted the significant economic relationship between the UK and the US, with both nations having invested $1.5 trillion in each other's economies.

During a separate meeting at the White House, President Trump indicated that no decision had yet been made regarding the potential imposition of tariffs on UK imports.

Notably, on February 27, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer made his first visit to the White House, where he met with US President Donald Trump, and several key moments shaped their diplomatic discussions.

Starmer began by presenting Trump with an official letter from King Charles III, inviting the US president for a second state visit. Trump, initially taken aback by the gesture, accepted the invitation, offering praise for the King, calling him "a beautiful man" and "a wonderful man."

During their meeting in the Oval Office, Trump quickly took charge, asserting his dominance and steering the conversation. He also took control of the joint press conference, where Starmer faced questions, including one about Trump’s call to make Canada the 51st US state. However, the exchange was swiftly redirected by Trump.

Despite their differing political views, Trump emphasised a shared sense of national pride, noting that both he and Starmer "love our country." Trump also acknowledged Starmer’s efforts to address trade tariffs, hinting at the potential for a future trade deal between the US and the UK that could bypass such barriers. In turn, Starmer highlighted the opportunity for a new economic deal focusing on advanced technology.

In terms of international diplomacy, Trump expressed his willingness to support the UK’s position on the Chagos Islands, signalling plans to retain the Diego Garcia airbase under US lease, although discussions on the matter are still ongoing.

Trump also walked back previous comments where he referred to Ukrainian President Zelenskyy as a "dictator," now praising him as "very brave." He conveyed optimism regarding potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.

On the topic of free speech, Starmer defended the UK's tradition, responding to criticism from US Vice President JD Vance. He rejected claims of a retreat in free speech, firmly standing by the UK's long-standing commitment to this principle.

By Aghakazim Guliyev