British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has told United States President Donald Trump that Iran must not be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon, while also calling for the immediate release of British citizen Jimmy Lai.
Burnham met with Trump on Tuesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office published on Wednesday.
The meeting covered UK-US relations, trade, migration and several international issues, including Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, the war in Ukraine, Diego Garcia, the Falkland Islands and the case of Jimmy Lai.
The two leaders reaffirmed the importance of the relationship between Britain and the United States, with Burnham highlighting what he described as the benefits of existing trade agreements to people in Britain.
He also discussed his government’s economic priorities, including reindustrialisation and setting what he described as a clear direction for the country.
Migration was another issue on the agenda. Burnham said small-boat crossings during the summer had fallen to their lowest level in six years, while net migration had also declined. He also acknowledged the contribution of people who entered Britain legally.
On international security, Burnham stressed the need to reopen global shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and warned about Iran’s nuclear programme.
He reiterated Britain’s position that Iran must never possess a nuclear weapon, while noting that the conflict had affected the cost of living in Britain.
The leaders also discussed the war in Ukraine and the need to achieve a lasting peace. According to the statement, Trump acknowledged Britain’s support for Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict.
On Diego Garcia, Burnham said he remained committed to working with all parties to reach a solution.
The Falkland Islands also featured in the discussions, with Burnham reaffirming that Britain would stand firm against threats.
The meeting further addressed the detention of British citizen Jimmy Lai, with Burnham repeating his call for Lai’s immediate release.
The two leaders agreed to maintain contact and speak again soon.
Source: PUNCH
