Biden to host Starmer to discuss Gaza, Ukraine
U.S. President Joe Biden and Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer are seen at a meeting in Washington, U.S., July 11, 2024. PHOTO:REUTERS
US President Joe Biden will host British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at the White House on September 13 for a high-level meeting focused on key global challenges, the White House announced on Friday.
The leaders are expected to hold in-depth discussions on a wide range of international issues of mutual interest, emphasizing the strong cooperation between the US and the UK on pressing geopolitical matters.
At the top of the agenda is the continued support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russian military aggression. Both Biden and Starmer have been vocal in their commitment to aiding Ukraine, and this meeting is expected to reinforce their shared stance on providing robust military, economic, and humanitarian assistance to Kyiv.
Another critical topic will be securing a potential hostage release and negotiating a ceasefire to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
With the war causing a significant humanitarian crisis, the U.S. and UK are seeking diplomatic solutions to halt the violence and ensure the safety of civilians and hostages involved.
The leaders will also address security threats in the Red Sea, particularly concerning Iranian-backed Houthi forces targeting international shipping routes. Ensuring the safety of these vital waterways is a priority for both nations, given the potential economic and geopolitical risks posed by Houthi aggression.
In addition, advancing a "free and open Indo-Pacific" will be a key focus of their discussions.
Both the US and UK have stressed the importance of countering growing Chinese influence in the region while promoting peace, stability, and international law in the strategic Indo-Pacific.
This meeting marks an important opportunity for Biden and Starmer to strengthen the US-UK alliance and coordinate their efforts on a range of critical global issues. According to a White House statement, the leaders will work closely to address shared challenges and ensure that their cooperation continues to serve as a pillar of global security and diplomacy.