“I remember Boris Johnson also went to Washington a few years ago and came home with a transatlantic deal,” says Van Bekhoven. “Once he was sectioned, it wasn’t much.” British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, on the other hand, returned home with an “Atlantic Declaration”, according to Sunak an “action plan for the future of our cooperation”. Countries want to cooperate more closely in the field of technology, including artificial intelligence, energy and innovation. He promises the declaration will lead to a stronger economy and thus more jobs.
Bag full
“It’s not a free trade agreement with the United States,” Van Bekhoven points out, “but Sunak came home with a bag full of small trade deals. For example, in the field of trading in minerals needed for batteries and electric cars. And it will become easier to protect data. There is also recognition for educational diplomas for certain occupational groups. And in terms of buying military equipment, UK suppliers trading with the US get the same benefits as US companies. That in itself is a lot.”
Also on Sunak’s wish list: Sending Ben Wallace to succeed NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg. He hasn’t made it official himself, but Biden has said someone would be right for the role. The hope of the British is that Ben Wallace is understood. But again no dot on the ‘i’ yet.’
According to Van Bekhoven, the aspect ratio is “much, much better than Sunak’s predecessors”. “A major victory for the British prime minister”.