Renewal Over Rupture: Exploring the Future of UK-US Relations

Your Royal Highness, Cabinet Secretaries, Members of Congress, esteemed Friends and Allies, Redcoats and Rebels.

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Band of Bugles & Rifles for gracing us with their presence this evening. It is truly a delight to have them here with us.

In 1776, the celebrations for the King’s Birthday on this side of the Atlantic were, shall we say, somewhat muted. However, 250 years later, we have a remarkable narrative to commemorate.

From the reign of George III to that of Charles III, we have transitioned from adversaries to allies. What began as a family dispute over taxation has blossomed into one of the most productive partnerships in history.

This year, marking the semi-quincentennial, has been nothing short of remarkable. We have witnessed an historic State Visit, the largest British trade mission ever to the United States, and a World Cup that has clarified one undeniable truth: no Scotland, no party.

Earlier this month, twenty-five years after the tragic events of 9/11, we gathered in New York, Pennsylvania, and at the Pentagon to honour those whose bravery and sacrifice continue to unite our nations.

Just last week, the new British Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, had a highly encouraging first meeting with President Trump.

Reflecting on Our Enduring Relationship

In light of all these developments, I am reminded of the words from His Majesty The King’s historic address to Congress, which described our relationship as “vital, enduring, and consequential.”

As we contemplate our future together, there are three key messages I wish to convey today.

Firstly, what stands out to me is not just the strength of our alliance, but its remarkable capacity for reinvention and adaptation to define the coming decades.

Since Claire and I returned to Washington DC in February, the city of our children’s birth, we have traversed this remarkable nation, witnessing the diversity, dynamism, and determination of the American people firsthand.

Everywhere we go, we see the UK-US partnership in action. From British tech start-ups in San Francisco to quantum innovators in Chicago, and our law enforcement agencies collaborating in Tampa, this partnership delivers tangible results.

In recent months, our trade agreement has enabled life-changing breast cancer treatments to become available in the UK. Our security agencies successfully disrupted cybercriminals responsible for 120 attacks and $115 million in ransom demands. Furthermore, the Royal Navy recently conducted a test launch of a US torpedo from an uncrewed submersible, marking a significant achievement for our AUKUS security partnership.

On a lighter note, I have also learned two valuable life lessons: Chris Stapleton sounds even better live, and phones do not float in the Colorado River while white-water rafting.

Addressing Doubts and Misconceptions

Secondly, I must acknowledge that I have heard voices of concern on both sides of the Atlantic questioning the relevance of old alliances. They perceive a volatile world and suggest we face a choice between the USA and Europe, or advocate for nations to turn inward.

In contrast, I firmly believe that history teaches us that the appropriate response to change is not retreat but renewal.

To those who claim that British cities are unsafe, that we are being inundated by migrants, or that we have forsaken freedom of speech, I assert that you are mistaken. I reject the distorted narratives and divisive forces that promote such views.

Reflecting on the spirit of 1776, it is evident that our two nations have experienced disagreements over time. Just consider our small differences in language: aluminium, football, pants.

The essence of our alliance is not the absence of disagreement; rather, it is our ability to navigate these differences and emerge even stronger.

Our objective now is not to preserve this relationship in amber or to rest on our laurels. We must adapt it for the decades to come, and I am deeply optimistic that we will succeed.

For anyone still in doubt, I invite you to settle the matter over a pint—a proper British pint—at the Embassy’s newest diplomatic asset, The Two Georges pub.

Understanding Britain’s Strengths

Thirdly, I wish to instil confidence regarding the contributions Britain brings to the table.

The United Kingdom stands as one of the world’s foremost centres of innovation, research, and finance. It is home to four of the top ten universities globally, producing talent, patents, and groundbreaking innovations. Furthermore, it boasts the third-largest technology ecosystem on the planet and has been recognised as the fastest-growing economy in the G7 for the first half of 2026, with further upward revisions today.

We are bolstering our economic prowess with robust defence capabilities, being NATO’s third-highest defence spender in monetary terms, with nearly $400 billion committed over the next four years. Notably, 15% of every F35 airframe is manufactured in the UK, built upon 80 years of cutting-edge intelligence cooperation that ensures our safety.

This year, our bilateral trade reached a record $430 billion, increasing by 4%. Our mutual investments in each other’s economies total $1.7 trillion, with the UK being a leading investor in 25 out of your 50 states.

This serves as a prime reason to express gratitude to our lead sponsors tonight: BP, Barclays, HSBC, London Stock Exchange Group, and Booking Holdings. Additionally, I extend my sincere thanks to the dedicated teams at the British Embassy for their hard work in making this event possible.

Undoubtedly, our greatest asset is our people. It is a privilege to welcome His Royal Highness, The Duke of Edinburgh, this evening.

For 70 years, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has inspired young individuals to realise their full potential. We are fortunate to have at least one gold award holder with us tonight, Lady Turner. Today, this award is active in all 50 states, nurturing our friendship for generations ahead.

Shaping a Brighter Future Together

In conclusion, the pertinent question is not whether the world is evolving, but rather how we can shape that change for those who will inherit it.

Yesterday, I had the honour of joining members of the US Administration—including Secretary Burgum—at the Washington Monument to bury a time capsule. This capsule is set to be opened on America’s 500th birthday in 2276 and contains artefacts and messages from British students inspired by President Washington, sharing their aspirations for the future.

Allow me to share a message from one of these students, Maddie, aged thirteen, from Washington in Sunderland. She wrote:

“To bear a country’s name is not just pride, But quiet work when no one sees your hand. In every choice, let conscience be your guide, And serve with care the good of all the land.”

Ladies and gentlemen, Your Royal Highness, Secretary Bessent, Secretary Burgum, friends, when the United Kingdom and the United States unite our talent, ingenuity, and ambition, the future shines brighter for us all.

Please join me in celebrating His Majesty The King and looking ahead with confidence to the next chapter of our extraordinary partnership.

Thank you.