Starmer extends congratulations to Trump ahead of Inauguration

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has extended congratulations to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration, affirming that the special relationship between the two nations will continue to thrive.

The prime minister praised the strong bond between the 47th president and the UK, promising to collaborate for the success of both countries and the well-being of their people.

Trump, in his pre-inauguration rally, emphasized the new American majority built by his supporters that he believes will lead the country to success for years to come.

Various UK politicians, including Nigel Farage, are present in Washington, D.C. for the ceremonies, raising concerns about the potential impact of Trump’s second term on global economies if tariffs are put into effect.

Starmer expressed his congratulatory message to Trump, highlighting the long-standing collaboration, cooperation, and enduring partnership between the two nations.

He emphasized the need to deepen and invest in the transatlantic relationship, tackling global challenges together and focusing on shared opportunities for growth.

The prime minister looks forward to further meetings with the President to ensure peace, prosperity, and security for both nations, asserting that the special relationship will continue to flourish in the years to come.

“For centuries, the relationship between our two nations has been one of collaboration, cooperation and enduring partnership. It is a uniquely close bond,” Starmer said.

“Together, we have defended the world from tyranny and worked towards our mutual security and prosperity.”

The prime minister and the president-elect met in New York in September at Trump Tower, ahead of the U.S. election, and at the time Starmer said he is a “great believer in personal relations on the international stage.”

Starmer added on Sunday: “Since our first meeting in September, the President and I have spoken about the need to deepen and invest in the transatlantic relationship.

“We will continue to build upon the unshakeable foundations of our historic alliance as we tackle together the global challenges we face and take our partnership to the next level focused on shared opportunities ahead for growth.

“I look forward to our next meeting as we continue our shared mission to ensure the peace, prosperity and security of our two great nations.

“The special relationship between the United Kingdom and United States will continue to flourish for years to come.”

The Associated Press reported on Sunday evening that supporters of Trump filled the Capital One Arena for the pre-inauguration rally.

“Tomorrow, at noon, the curtain closes on four long years of American decline, and we begin a brand-new day of American strength and prosperity, dignity and pride,” Trump told supporters.

He added: “We not only won a mandate, but we built a new American majority that will lead our country to success for generations to come.”

A number of UK political figures have gathered in Washington, D.C. ahead of the inauguration; the government will be represented by outgoing Ambassador to the United States Dame Karen Pierce.

Shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti Patel and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage are among the UK political figures in Washington ahead of Monday’s ceremonies.

In a video posted on social media platform X on Saturday, Patel said she was there to represent the Conservative Party, with whom the Republicans have a “decades-long relationship.”

She added, “Post-inauguration, our parties will continue to work together on those shared values to secure prosperity and freedom across the globe.”

Clacton MP Farage shared an image of himself in front of the illuminated White House on Friday evening, alongside three U.S. flags.

There are questions over what the second Trump presidency could mean for countries and economies around the globe if the president goes ahead with promised tariffs on U.S. imports.

A Cabinet minister suggested on Sunday that the government “has prepared for all scenarios” in terms of tariffs.

Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said “we need to see what the Trump administration do,” but also that Trump is “well known for wanting to do a good deal.”

When asked about tariffs, Jones told the BBC’s “Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg” programme: “Well, look, as you would expect, the government has prepared for all scenarios.

“They’re hypothetical at this stage, we need to see what the Trump administration do.”