"Alliances can wither or be destroyed, but partnerships of purpose are indestructible. Friendships can be shaken, but our friendship is unshakable. Treaties can be broken, but our partnership is unbreakable," said the prime minister in a formal address to U.S. Congress in Washington.
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British Prime Minister Gordon Brown delivers remarks at the Joint Session of the US Congress on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., March 4, 2009 |
During his meeting with Brown on Tuesday, President Obama said the special relationship with Britain is important to the American people, and that Britain is one of the closest and strongest allies of the United States.
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British Prime Minister Gordon Brown delivers remarks at the Joint Session of the US Congress on Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C., March 4, 2009 |
"We will work tirelessly with you as partners for peace in the Middle East, for a two-state solution, ... that provides for nothing less than a secure Israel safe within its borders existing side by side with a viable Palestinian state," said Brown.
"We will work tirelessly with you to reduce the threat of nuclear proliferation and reduce the stockpile of nuclear weapons," he said.
"Our shared message to Iran, it is simple. We are ready for you to rejoin the international community but, first, you must cease your threats and suspend your nuclear programs," Brown stressed.
Britain is one of the United States' closest allies, and its foreign policy emphasizes close coordination with the United States.
The two countries continually consult on foreign policy issues and global problems and share major foreign and security policy objectives. The U.S.-Britain relationship is also viewed as the corner of the transatlantic relationship.