Brown pushes for Iran sanctions after Bush talks
Monday, 16 Jun 2008 21:26
Gordon Brown and George Bush hold "in-depth" talks on second day of US president's UK visit
Gordon Brown has called for further sanctions upon Iran following official talks with George Bush.
The prime minister and Mr Bush warned Tehran "all options remained on the table" if it continued to defy international pressure over its uranium enrichment programme.
Mr Brown's comments came during a Downing Street press conference following what is expected to be his last round of formal talks with the president before the steps down later this year.
Mr Bush, who is currently on the second day of his visit to the UK, responded by describing the prime minister as "a true friend of Britain", praising his record on counterterrorism.
"He's left more troops in Iraq than originally indicated," the president continued, thanking Mr Brown for his "strong words" on Iran.
As well as Iran and Iraq, the success of US-led operations in would be 'judged by history' according to Mr Bush, the two leaders' talks also touched on the situation in Zimbabwe and peace in Northern Ireland.
Yesterday Mr Bush had dinner with the Queen at Windsor castle, but his arrival was overshadowed by hundreds of anti-war demonstrators.
However, the estimated 2,000-strong demonstration was muted compared to the 200,000 people who turned out to protest the president's last UK visit in 2003.
Police said 25 activists were arrested after scuffles broke out yesterday.
Mr Bush is approaching the end of his European farewell tour, having already visited Italy, France and Germany.
Earlier today he was reunited with Tony Blair, a key ally when the former prime minister was in office.
Mr Bush has now arrived in Northern Ireland for the next stage in his trip.
Flanked by first minister Peter Robinson and deputy first minister Martin McGuinness at Stormont Castle, Mr Bush said: "Societies around the world wonder if reconciliation is possible for them. The progress made today was unimaginable years ago."
Mr Robinson said: "We're delighted president Bush of his own choice has realised Belfast is one of the majoy cities of Europe. We're really grateful for the work that has been done by the president over recent years."
Eight years of Bush administrations will end this year, with either presumptive Republican and Democratic nominees John McCain or Barack Obama poised to replace the president.