Andy Burnham extends invitation to Donald Trump for G20 Summit in Manchester
Andy Burnham is expected to meet with Donald Trump in Manchester next year for the G20 Summit, it has emerged, after the pair spoke for the first time just minutes after the new prime minister entered No 10, reports BritPanorama.
Mr Burnham reportedly extended the invite to the US president during one of his first calls since taking office. While White House sources offered no specific details regarding the conversation, discussions are believed to have included new oil and gas drilling in the North Sea.
This follows reports that Mr Burnham might support new fossil fuel production, prompting Mr Trump to declare on Truth Social that people in Aberdeen would be “dancing in the streets”.
A Downing Street spokesperson confirmed Mr Burnham invited the US president to Manchester, with the hope that he could demonstrate what the city has to offer during a future visit. The invitation is planned to coincide with the 2027 G20 summit, which is anticipated to be held in Manchester.
Although the decision to host the summit would have been taken by Sir Keir Starmer, Mr Burnham is keen to showcase the city he formerly led. When previously asked about Mr Burnham, President Trump remarked, “I don’t know, I think I see that he was, I guess, the mayor of a town.” Trump described him as “extremely liberal, extremely.”
In a readout of the call, a spokesperson noted that Mr Burnham congratulated the President on a successful World Cup, agreeing that England had performed well in the tournament. The Prime Minister also expressed his commitment to defence and security.
Before Mr Burnham’s entry into Downing Street, Mr Trump commented on the controversial plans for new drilling in the North Sea, stating that the new prime minister would open oil fields “all the way”. The US president, a strong advocate for fossil fuels, claimed that this approach would prevent Britain from becoming a “poverty-stricken disaster”.
Though Mr Burnham previously insisted on adhering to Labour’s manifesto pledge not to issue new North Sea licences, he has not dismissed reports suggesting he is contemplating new production approvals.
On Truth Social, Mr Trump wrote: “The People of Aberdeen, in Scotland, are dancing in the streets because the new Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, has stated that he will be opening up, all the way, the invaluable North Sea Oil!” These remarks signal what may be a challenging relationship with Britain’s fifth prime minister in as many years.
Throughout Monday, Mr Burnham received congratulations from various world leaders. Senior figures from the European Union expressed hopes for closer EU-UK relations, while Ukraine’s president noted he would speak to Mr Burnham later in the day.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated she looked forward to collaborating with Mr Burnham for “the prosperity of people on both sides of the Channel.” She remarked: “Congratulations, dear Andy Burnham, on your confirmation as Prime Minister. I look forward to working with you to strengthen the EU-UK partnership for the security of our shared continent.”
The President of the European Council, Antonio Costa, expressed enthusiasm about deepening cooperation, noting that EU-UK relations have gained a positive momentum in recent years.
Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky conveyed his best wishes to Mr Burnham, highlighting the UK’s historical role as a global leader and expressing readiness to collaborate in all possible formats. “We highly appreciate the UK’s political, defence, and values-based support,” he added.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese congratulated Mr Burnham, emphasizing the longstanding friendship and partnership between their nations. Similarly, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed hope for a strengthened relationship amid shared challenges, praising the previous efforts of Sir Keir Starmer in fostering cooperation between the UK and its European partners.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni reiterated best wishes for Mr Burnham’s tenure, underscoring the deep collaboration between Italy and the UK. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also congratulated the new Prime Minister, affirming the close partnership between Germany and the United Kingdom.
As world leaders extend their congratulations, the unfolding political landscape presents a mix of opportunities and challenges that Mr Burnham will need to navigate adeptly.
