Keir Starmer revealed his selection to succeed Peter Mandelson as the new UK ambassador to the United States. Christian Turner, a seasoned diplomat and former Political Director at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCDO), has been appointed to represent Britain in Washington DC, as announced by the government.
In May, the government disclosed that Dr. Turner had been designated as the UK’s Ambassador to the United Nations. Subsequently, No10 announced his reassignment from New York to Washington DC to assume the role of Britain’s next liaison with the US administration.
This decision follows the dismissal of Lord Mandelson as Ambassador to Washington due to revelations about his association with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Dr. Turner, a career diplomat, previously served as the British High Commissioner to Pakistan from December 2019 to January 2023, and also held roles as an international affairs advisor and Deputy National Security Advisor during Theresa May’s tenure as Prime Minister.
In response to the appointment, Keir Starmer expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I’m thrilled that Christian Turner has been chosen as the British Ambassador to the United States of America. The relationship between the United Kingdom and United States is unique, and Christian’s extensive diplomatic experience will further strengthen this bond.”
Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper commended Dr. Turner’s exceptional diplomatic expertise, emphasizing the importance of his leadership in enhancing global partnerships to uphold the UK’s special relationship with the United States.
Dr. Turner himself commented, “I am privileged to be selected as the UK’s Ambassador to the USA. Our nations share a longstanding partnership based on common values, mutual security, and strong economic ties. I am eager to collaborate with the Trump administration, Congress, businesses, and society to reinforce this bond in the coming years.”