US President Donald Trump has praised during the on-going visit of the United Kingdom the relationship between both countries. He hailed the cooperation as the “greatest alliance the world has ever known” after a meeting with UK Prime Minister Theresa May. May insisted on building on the great relationship and appreciated the open discussion on countries’ differences regarding climate change, Iran and China. US president also suggested a “phenomenal” trade deal after the UK leaves the EU, which would aim at doubling or trebling the bilateral trade. What should or should not be included in such a deal would be the subject of further talks, acknowledged May.
In the meantime, protests were held in central London, with people demonstrating their opposition to President Trump’s visit. Protests were joined also by various political actors, such as Liberal Democrats and the Green Party. Jeremy Corbyn refused to come to state dinner and joined the rally as he criticised Trump’s attack on Mayor of London Sadiq Khan. “I am proud that our city has a Muslim mayor, that we can chase down Islamophobia, anti-Semitism, any form of racism within our society,” he said.
However, Corbyn had attempted to engage in dialogue with US President on another occasion. “I really don’t like critics as much as I like and respect people who get things done – so I decided not to meet,” said Trump as he turned down the offer. The meeting with the Prime Minister May preceded a visit to Buckingham Palace on Monday. The Queen commented that the visit ensured the “safety and prosperity of both our peoples for decades” and praised the US-UK alliance. Trump also took a tour of Westminster Abbey and had a tea with the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall.
