UK Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves expressed confidence on Thursday that Britain and the United States can reach a trade agreement aimed at easing the impact of U.S. import

tariffs imposed under President Donald Trump.

Speaking to Newsmax ahead of a meeting with U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Reeves acknowledged differences in policy but emphasized the strength of the UK-U.S. relationship.

“We don’t always see eye to eye on policy, but I believe we can strike a deal that reduces trade barriers between our countries,” she said. “Our close ties in defense, security, and economic cooperation give me confidence.”

Reeves is currently in Washington for the spring meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. Her upcoming talks with Bessent are expected to focus on trade, though she noted the UK isn’t rushing into an agreement and will not compromise on food standards.

During the Newsmax interview, Reeves also echoed concerns shared by the Trump administration about China’s trade practices.

“I fully understand the U.S. concerns over global trade imbalances, especially regarding China, which maintains large and persistent surpluses with both the U.S. and the UK,” she said.

She also highlighted the UK’s ongoing commitment to increasing defense spending—another key priority of the Trump administration. Photo by Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street, Wikimedia commons.