British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has told US President Donald Trump that Iran must never be allowed to acquire a nuclear weapon, while also pressing for the immediate release of British citizen Jimmy Lai.
Burnham met Trump on Tuesday on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, in their first face-to-face meeting since Burnham became prime minister. The discussions covered UK-US relations, trade, migration and several international issues.
The two leaders discussed the situation around the Strait of Hormuz and the threat posed by Iran’s nuclear programme. Burnham stressed “how Iran must never have a nuclear weapon,” while noting that the ongoing conflict was affecting the cost of living in Britain.
Their meeting also touched on the war in Ukraine and the need to achieve a lasting peace. Trump acknowledged the UK’s support for Ukraine since Russia’s invasion, according to the statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
On UK-US trade, both leaders highlighted the importance of their economic relationship. Burnham said existing trade agreements had delivered “clear benefits to British people back home.”
He also outlined his domestic priorities, saying he was focused on “making Britain feel good about itself again” through “setting a clear direction and reindustrialisation,” describing the period ahead as “a draw-a-line moment for the country.”
Migration was another issue discussed during the meeting. Burnham pointed to a reduction in small-boat crossings and net migration, while also acknowledging the contribution of people who had legally moved to Britain.
The leaders further discussed Diego Garcia, with Burnham saying he remained committed to “working with all parties to find a solution.” Trump has separately criticised the UK’s agreement involving the Chagos Islands and Mauritius.
The Falkland Islands also featured in the discussions, with Burnham making clear that “Britain would stand firm in the face of threats.”
The case of Jimmy Lai was another major issue raised by the British prime minister. Burnham reiterated “the need for his immediate release,” according to the official statement.
The meeting came amid wider diplomatic efforts over the Iran conflict. Trump said after meeting Burnham that US and Iranian officials had continued talking and expressed his belief that a settlement could eventually be reached, while maintaining that Iran could not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Burnham and Trump agreed to remain in contact following their discussions.
