President Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer officially signed a technology partnership agreement this Thursday. Both leaders highlighted that this pact is designed to position the United States and Britain as global frontrunners in artificial intelligence and other high-tech innovations.
These agreements marked the conclusion of a meticulously planned state visit, which notably included a lavish royal reception. The two-day trip offered Mr. Trump a temporary reprieve from domestic political pressures, and he largely steered clear of contentious political discussions and disagreements between the allies on sensitive topics like trade and the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. However, Prime Minister Starmer is expected to address these issues during his private meeting with Mr. Trump, and both leaders anticipate facing questions on these matters at a press conference later this afternoon.
This diplomatic push followed a day filled with regal splendor, culminating in a white-tie dinner at Windsor Castle. During the event, Mr. Trump extended lavish praise to the British royal family. White House officials, Trump cabinet members, and prominent American business figures shared a meal with their British counterparts and members of the aristocracy in an extravagant setting that clearly resonated with the president’s appreciation for opulence.
Upon departing Windsor Castle this Thursday morning for Chequers, the official country residence of Britain’s prime minister, Mr. Trump lauded his host, King Charles III, as “a great gentleman and a great king.”
Meanwhile, First Lady Melania Trump remained at the castle for several hours, engaging in events alongside Queen Camilla and Catherine, Princess of Wales.
Key highlights from the visit include:
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Investments: In conjunction with Mr. Trump’s visit, major companies such as Microsoft, OpenAI, and Blackstone have pledged over $200 billion in investments in Britain over the next decade. Similarly, leading British firms, including the pharmaceutical giant GSK, have committed to investing in the United States. While such pledges are customary during high-profile diplomatic visits, the British government undoubtedly views these commitments as a significant achievement, particularly as it strives to boost economic growth.
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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 an agreement to construct additional nuclear power plants in Britain. The Starmer administration has committed to fast-tracking reviews for new proposed plants, mirroring Mr. Trump’s executive orders aimed at accelerating nuclear reactor approvals in the United States.
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Protests: On Wednesday, thousands of demonstrators gathered in central London to protest Mr. Trump’s visit. This widespread public demonstration stood in stark contrast to the red-carpet treatment he received from the royal family and political leaders during his meticulously managed trip to Britain.
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First Lady’s Engagements: Queen Camilla personally guided Mrs. Trump on a tour of Queen Mary’s Dolls’ House on Thursday. This exquisite miniature palace, gifted to Queen Mary (wife of King George V) in 1924, showcases exceptional British craftsmanship. Later, Mrs. Trump is scheduled to join Catherine, Princess of Wales, at Frogmore Gardens for an event with Britain’s Scouts Association.