Our special relationship with the United States is our most important bilateral partnership in the world. We share a deep heritage, legal system, respect for human rights, freedoms and democratic values. These shared values lead to deep, enduring ties.

Trade and Investment links between the UK and USA are very strong. The UK is the number one foreign investor in the United States, with more than $300 billion in investments.

British forces work alongside US colleagues on operations around the world. Currently there are nearly 8,000 UK troops, alongside US and NATO counterparts, helping to build the security conditions in which reconstruction and development in Afghanistan can take place. Through our membership of NATO, G8 and the UN, we work with the US on the global challenges of climate change, international development , and terrorism to ensure the future security and prosperity of our peoples.

Britons and Americans visit each other countries frequently. More than 4.5 million UK nationals visit the USA for business and tourism each year, spending approximately $14 billion. US tourism to the UK stands around 3 million, spending $10 billion.

We both prosper from extensive, dynamic, educational links. 40,000 US students study in the UK each year. Prime Minister Gordon Brown has made a number of proposals for increased cooperation: in fostering entrepreneurship; in philanthropy; in health research; in climate change technology; and by intensifying research and faculty exchanges between institutions.

In addition, the UK awards approximately 40 Marshall Scholarships annually.