WIREDGOV

The International Trade Secretary Liz Truss and United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer yesterday announced the formal launch of trade agreement negotiations between the UK and the U.S.

In light of the ongoing global pandemic caused by Covid-19, the first round of negotiations will be conducted virtually, with UK and U.S. negotiators engaging in discussions over the next two weeks in nearly 30 different negotiating groups covering all aspects of a comprehensive trade agreement.

Both parties agree that a Free Trade Agreement would contribute to the long-term health of our economies, which is vitally important as we recover from the challenges posed by Covid-19.

An FTA is a priority for both countries and we share a commitment to secure an ambitious agreement that significantly boosts trade and investment. We will undertake negotiations at an accelerated pace and have committed the resources necessary to progress at a fast pace.

International Trade Secretary Liz Truss yesterday said:

The US is our largest trading partner and increasing transatlantic trade can help our economies bounce back from the economic challenge posed by Coronavirus. We want to strike an ambitious deal that opens up new opportunities for our businesses, brings in more investment and creates better jobs for people across the whole of the country. As the Prime Minister has said, the UK is a champion of free trade and this deal will make it even easier to do business with our friends across the pond.

United States Trade Representative Lighthizer yesterday said:

Under the leadership of President Trump, the United States will negotiate an ambitious and high-standard trade agreement with the UK that will strengthen our economies, support good-paying jobs and substantially improve opportunities for trade and investment between our two countries. This will be an historic agreement that is consistent with U.S. priorities and the negotiating objectives established by Congress in U.S. law.

Click here for the full press release