First Cabinet Meeting for British Prime Minister Keir Starmer

The new British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, hit the ground running in his first few hours in office, engaging with key allies and partners around the world. Starmer held phone calls with leaders such as U.S. President Joe Biden, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, among others.

During his call with Prime Minister Modi, Starmer emphasized his willingness to conclude a Free Trade Agreement that benefits both countries. The India-UK relationship was described as “strong and respectful” in the wake of the call, a signal of the Labour Party’s efforts to reset ties with Indian-origin Britons.

In addition to discussing trade, Starmer and Modi talked about deepening cooperation in defense, security, critical technologies, and climate change. The leaders also highlighted the positive contributions of the Indian community to the UK and agreed to promote people-to-people ties.

Starmer’s conversations with other world leaders, such as President Biden and Prime Minister Kishida of Japan, centered on shared ambitions for economic growth, security partnerships, and support for Ukraine. The new Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to working with the U.S. on various issues, including the Indo-Pacific region.

Looking ahead, Starmer is set to attend the NATO Summit in Washington DC and the European Political Community Summit in Blenheim, England. He has promised a closer relationship with the European Union on trade and security matters, while also addressing domestic issues such as healthcare and prison reform.

As Starmer embarks on his tenure, he acknowledged the challenges ahead, emphasizing that change will take time. With a focus on building stronger partnerships at home and abroad, the new Prime Minister sets the stage for a dynamic term in office.