President Trump and Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain have officially signed a major technology partnership agreement. Both leaders stated that this collaboration would position the United States and Britain at the forefront of global advancements in artificial intelligence and other high-tech innovations.
These agreements were finalized on the concluding day of a meticulously planned state visit, which included an opulent royal reception. The two-day trip offered Mr. Trump a brief respite from political pressures back home, and he largely steered clear of overt political discussions or disagreements between the allies on sensitive topics like trade and the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza.
However, it was anticipated that Prime Minister Starmer would address these critical issues during his discussions with Mr. Trump, and both leaders were expected to face questions on these matters during a news conference later on Thursday afternoon.
Wednesday was filled with pomp and ceremony, highlighted by a white-tie dinner at Windsor Castle where Mr. Trump enthusiastically praised the British royal family. White House officials, members of Trump’s cabinet, and prominent American business leaders dined alongside their British counterparts and aristocracy in a setting that clearly appealed to the president’s appreciation for grandeur.
Upon his departure from Windsor Castle on Thursday morning for Chequers, the country estate of the British prime minister, Mr. Trump described King Charles III as ‘a great gentleman and a great king.’
Meanwhile, Melania Trump, the first lady, remained at the castle, participating in engagements with Queen Camilla and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Here’s what else unfolded:
- Investments: In conjunction with Mr. Trump’s visit, major companies including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Blackstone have pledged over $200 billion in investments in Britain for the next decade. Similarly, leading British firms such as the pharmaceutical giant GSK announced intentions to invest in the United States. While such pledges are common during high-profile international visits, the British government views these commitments as a significant achievement, especially as it endeavors to boost economic growth.
- Nuclear energy: Despite their considerable differences on most climate and energy policies, Mr. Trump and Mr. Starmer found common ground on nuclear energy. They finalized a deal to construct more nuclear power plants in Britain. The Starmer administration has committed to fast-tracking the review process for new plant proposals, mirroring Mr. Trump’s executive orders aimed at accelerating nuclear reactor approvals in the United States.
- Protests: On Wednesday, thousands of demonstrators gathered in central London to protest Mr. Trump’s visit. This widespread public opposition starkly contrasted with the red-carpet treatment he received from the royal family and political leaders during his carefully orchestrated tour of Britain.
- First lady: Queen Camilla personally guided Mrs. Trump on a tour of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House at Windsor Castle. This exquisite miniature palace, presented as a gift to Queen Mary in 1924, showcases exceptional British craftsmanship. Later, Mrs. Trump joined Catherine, Princess of Wales, at Frogmore Gardens for an event with Britain’s Scouts Association.