US, UK renew commitment to special relationship

US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke with new UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy on Friday to congratulate him on his appointment. Secretary Blinken and Foreign Secretary Lammy emphasized the enduring and essential importance of the US-UK special relationship in addressing the most pressing global challenges, according to a statement attributable to US State Dept. Spokesperson Matthew Miller. Both sides discussed the possibility of reaching an immediate and enduring ceasefire in Gaza, and supporting Ukraine against "Russia's brutal aggression," Miller noted. "The Secretary noted that he looks forward to welcoming the Foreign Secretary to the NATO Summit in Washington next week," the spokesperson added. Source: Kuwait News Agency