Biden to host Starmer next week

(Patria) - U.S. President Joe Biden will host British Prime Minister Keir Starmer next week for talks focused on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, the White House announced yesterday.

- Starmer's visit to the White House on September 13, his second since taking office in July, will also focus on the "special relationship" between London and Washington - said press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, as reported by AFP.

The visit comes after Biden's decision to withdraw from the presidential race and hand over the baton to Vice President Kamala Harris. It was not clear whether Starmer would also meet with Harris.

- Biden and Starmer will discuss "continued strong support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression" and "securing the release of hostages and a ceasefire agreement to end the war in Gaza" - said Jean-Pierre.

Biden and Starmer will also discuss attacks on ships by Iran-backed Yemeni Houthi rebels and countering Chinese influence, ensuring a "free and open" Asia-Pacific region.

- President Biden will emphasize the importance of continuing to strengthen the special relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom - added Jean-Pierre.

Labour leader Starmer first visited the White House on July 10, just days after his election as prime minister, while attending the NATO leaders' summit in Washington.

During their meeting in the Oval Office, Biden hailed the UK as the "best ally," while Starmer reaffirmed British support for Ukraine as it fights against the Russian invasion.