US Biden Shows No Interest... UK Prime Minister Johnson Wants New FTA with the US

U.S. President Joe Biden (left) and U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson
[Photo by AFP, Reuters, Yonhap]

[Asia Economy Reporter Park Byung-hee] It is reported that U.S. President Joe Biden and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson discussed various issues during a phone call on the 23rd (local time). However, the two countries showed subtle differences in stance regarding trade matters.

According to the Associated Press on the 24th, the British Prime Minister's Office stated that during the phone call, President Biden and Prime Minister Johnson discussed a variety of issues including the U.S. rejoining the climate agreement, withdrawing the decision to leave the World Health Organization (WHO), and international cooperation on COVID-19 prevention. Furthermore, it was reported that Prime Minister Johnson presented his views on new negotiations, and that the two leaders discussed the benefits of a U.S.-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with Johnson emphasizing his hope for a swift decision on this matter.

However, the statement released by the White House showed a difference in tone compared to the British Prime Minister's Office. The White House stated in its release that the two leaders shared views on climate change, COVID-19 prevention and global health issues, and foreign policy regarding China, Iran, and Russia, but trade was not a topic of discussion.

At the end of last year, the UK concluded its Brexit transition period with the European Union (EU). With the end of the transition period set to eliminate confusion caused by Brexit, the UK is now able to independently pursue trade negotiations. Accordingly, Prime Minister Johnson aims to pursue a new FTA with the United States, which boasts the world's largest economy.

However, President Joe Biden prioritizes resolving domestic economic issues and does not intend to rush the pursuit of a new FTA.

White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki stated on the 22nd that the Biden administration currently has no plans to pursue new trade negotiations with foreign countries, and that President Biden will focus on COVID-19 prevention and the $1.9 trillion economic stimulus package.

Janet Yellen, the nominee for U.S. Treasury Secretary, also said, "President Biden has made it clear that there are no plans to pursue new FTAs with foreign countries until investments in American workers and infrastructure are made."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.