By Ahmed J Versi

London, (The Muslim News): Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke by phone to US President Joe Biden Saturday evening. The Prime Minister emphasised importance of special relationship with the US.

This comes in the wake of Biden removing Winston Churchill’s bust from the Oval office, which got a lot of coverage in the British media discussing whether the new Administration will continue to have “special relationship” with the UK.

Johnson, in a 35 minute call, congratulated the President on his inauguration and the they “looked forward to deepening the close alliance between our nations.”

After the phone call PM tweeted: “Great to speak to President @JoeBiden this evening. I look forward to deepening the longstanding alliance between our two countries as we drive a green and sustainable recovery from COVID-19.”

The Prime Minister “warmly welcomed” the President’s decision to re-join the Paris Agreement on climate change, as well as the World Health Organization and the COVAX programme to ensure equitable access for vaccines.

“They noted the significant challenges facing the world during the pandemic, but also the unparalleled opportunities to build back better and greener together,” said the Spokesman for the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister praised President Biden’s early action on tackling climate change and commitment to reach Net Zero by 2050.

“Building on the UK and US’ long history of cooperation in security and defence, the leaders re-committed to the NATO alliance and our shared values in promoting human rights and protecting democracy.

“They also discussed the benefits of a potential free trade deal between our two countries, and the Prime Minister reiterated his intention to resolve existing trade issues as soon as possible,” said the Spokesman.

“The leaders looked forward to meeting in person as soon as the circumstances allow, and to working together through the G7, G20 and COP26 this year.”

Biden’s phone call with Johnson came after the President calls with Mexico’s Manuel Lopez Obrador and Canada’s Justin Trudeau.

[Photo: Boris Johnson & US President Joe Biden. Photo by WikiCommons]