Keir Starmer has appointed Christian Turner as the new UK Ambassador to the United States, succeeding Peter Mandelson. Turner, a seasoned diplomat and former Political Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO), will take on the role in Washington DC.
Previously designated as the UK’s Ambassador to the United Nations in May, Turner has now been reassigned to Washington DC by No10 to serve as the liaison between Britain and the US government.
This decision follows the dismissal of Lord Mandelson as Ambassador to Washington due to his association with the late financier and convicted sex offender, Jeffrey Epstein.
Dr. Turner, a career diplomat, served as the British High Commissioner to Pakistan from December 2019 to January 2023. He also held positions as an international affairs advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor during Theresa May’s Premiership.
In response to Turner’s appointment, Keir Starmer expressed satisfaction, highlighting Turner’s diplomatic expertise and the importance of the special relationship between the UK and the US. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper also praised Turner’s experience and leadership qualities, emphasizing the significance of strengthening partnerships globally.
Dr. Turner expressed his honor at being nominated as the UK’s Ambassador to the USA, emphasizing the historical partnership, shared values, security, and economic ties between the two nations. He looks forward to collaborating with the Trump administration, congressional leaders, businesses, and society to enhance the transatlantic relationship in the future.