Prime Minister Andy Burnham is set to meet US President Donald Trump for the first time at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting, expected to last 30 minutes, comes after Burnham previously described Trump as “poisonous” during his tenure as mayor of Greater Manchester. Despite his past remarks, Burnham has brushed off the criticism, focusing on the diplomatic engagement ahead.
The meeting is part of a broader diplomatic agenda, with Burnham also set to address the UN General Assembly. His speech will emphasize the UK’s position on global issues, including recent tensions with Iran and the role of international institutions. The visit to New York will also include meetings with other world leaders, including Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Venezuela’s acting president Delcy Rodríguez.
Burnham’s decision to engage with Trump, despite their previous differences, reflects the complex nature of international diplomacy. The UK’s support for Saudi Arabia’s military operations in Yemen, including aerial refueling, has also been a point of discussion during his recent travels. As the UK prepares for a major security operation in Manchester for the G20 summit in 2027, Burnham’s diplomatic efforts with global leaders remain a key focus.
