Prime Minister Keir Starmer has appointed Varun Chandra as the UK’s special envoy to the United States.
With this Varun Chandra appointment, Britain aims to strengthen trade ties and expand economic partnerships with the US.
Chandra will lead government initiatives to identify trade and investment opportunities for both countries.
Moreover, this role formalizes work he has already carried out with senior US officials.
He has met Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer.
During Donald Trump’s state visit to Britain in September, Chandra helped facilitate over $10 billion in economic deals.
Additionally, Lutnick praised Chandra on X, calling him “an excellent representative of Great Britain and a trusted friend.”
Chandra joined Starmer’s team in July 2024 after spending a decade at strategic advisory firm Hakluyt & Co.
Furthermore, he maintains strong links with US business leaders, including JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon.
Although he will be based in Britain, Chandra will travel frequently to the United States to oversee trade initiatives.
He will also work closely with Christian Turner, the new diplomat replacing former ambassador Peter Mandelson in Washington.
Turner is expected to arrive in the US next week, while Chandra coordinates with him from London.
The Varun Chandra appointment comes amid tensions over Trump’s Greenland ambitions and NATO troop comments in Afghanistan.
Accordingly, Starmer’s office stated Chandra will ensure UK trade and investment strategies align with US policies.
His experience in strategic advisory and international diplomacy positions him to manage complex economic negotiations effectively.
In addition, officials say he has acted as a key liaison between the UK government and top US decision-makers.
The appointment signals Britain’s commitment to deepening economic collaboration with the United States.
Moreover, Chandra will promote investment projects and monitor policy shifts that affect British companies in the US.
Consequently, this Varun Chandra appointment highlights Starmer’s focus on strengthening the UK’s global economic presence.
Analysts note that Chandra’s expertise in finance and diplomacy could yield significant opportunities for both countries.
Furthermore, this appointment demonstrates the UK’s intention to maintain close ties with key US economic and political partners.
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