Thu Nov 07 11:00:39 UTC 2024: ## UK Prime Minister Congratulates Trump, Vows Continued Strong US-UK Relationship
**Budapest, Hungary -** British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has congratulated Donald Trump on his “historic” victory in the US presidential elections, pledging to strengthen the already “incredibly strong” special relationship between the UK and the US.
During a congratulatory phone call with Trump on Wednesday evening, the two leaders discussed a range of topics including defence, security, and economic growth. Both expressed their commitment to ensuring the continued success of the bilateral relationship.
“The Prime Minister offered his hearty congratulations and said he looked forward to working closely with President-elect Trump across all areas of the special relationship. From defence and security to growth and prosperity, the relationship between the UK and US was incredibly strong and would continue to thrive for many years to come,” said a Downing Street spokesperson.
The call comes following a heated exchange between Starmer and the newly elected UK Leader of the Opposition, Kemi Badenoch, in the House of Commons. Badenoch accused Labour Party volunteers of supporting Trump’s Democratic rival, Kamala Harris, during the campaign, a claim Starmer denied.
The two leaders also reflected on the situation in the Middle East and the importance of regional stability. They fondly recalled their meeting at Trump Tower in September during the United Nations General Assembly.
Starmer is currently in Budapest for a summit hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, where Trump’s victory and its implications on Europe and NATO are expected to be key discussion points.
Meanwhile, concerns have been raised about potential increased tariffs on UK exports from the new Trump administration, which could threaten the country’s manufacturing sector. Badenoch has urged Starmer to revive UK-US free trade agreement (FTA) talks, which were cancelled by the previous Biden administration.
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