Mark Carney met with Keir Starmer in London on Monday, as the leaders of Canada and the United Kingdom discussed growing global instability and strengthening cooperation between their nations.
The meeting took place at 10 Downing Street, where Starmer welcomed Carney and wished him a happy 61st birthday. The leaders reflected on how global challenges have intensified since their first meeting a year ago.
“It was about a year ago today, I’d just been sworn in as prime minister and came here,” Carney said. “We agreed to work closely on a number of international issues and also to tighten our bilateral ties. Now, of course, the number of issues has multiplied.”
Starmer echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the two countries in a rapidly changing world.
“I think the opportunity we’ve got to put together our values, our principles, and apply them to a very volatile world is really important this morning,” Starmer said.
According to Bill Blair, Canada’s high commissioner to the UK, the talks were expected to focus on the escalating conflict in Iran, broader collective security concerns and shifting global economic conditions.
Both leaders also reaffirmed their support for Ukraine in its ongoing war with Russia, stressing the importance of defending shared democratic values.
Carney’s visit comes amid increasing tensions in the Middle East, following calls by Donald Trump for allied nations to deploy warships to protect shipping through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz after attacks on vessels in the region.
A statement from Downing Street also confirmed that Starmer spoke with Trump on Sunday about efforts to ensure the key global shipping route remains open.
During his trip, Carney is also scheduled to meet King Charles III before beginning a vacation after a diplomatic tour that included meetings with Nordic leaders in Norway.
Despite starting his holiday following the visit, Carney said he will remain in close contact with his team as tensions continue to rise across the Middle East.
