LONDON – Keir Starmer has become the United Kingdom’s new prime minister after his centre-left opposition Labour Party swept to a landslide victory, ending 14 years of Conservative rule. “The work for change begins immediately,” Starmer said in a speech outside 10 Downing Street, the prime minister’s official residence. “We will rebuild Britain. …. Brick by brick, we will rebuild the infrastructure of opportunity.”

“Pleased with our first discussion. We will continue the work begun with the UK for our bilateral cooperation, for peace and security in Europe, for the climate and for AI,” French president Macron posted on X.

“Ukraine and the United Kingdom have been and will continue to be reliable allies through thick and thin. We will continue to defend and advance our common values of life, freedom, and a rules-based international order. I wish the incoming government every success both in domestic affairs and in solidifying the UK’s leadership on the world stage. I look forward to working closely together on strengthening the Ukraine-UK partnership and restoring international peace and security,” Zelenskyy posted on X.

“He’s a strong supporter of NATO, of the transatlantic alliance,” NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, congratulating Starmer.

“Lots of work ahead to build a more progressive, fair future for people on both sides of the Atlantic. Let’s get to it, my friend,” Canadian Prime Minister JustinTrudeau posted on X.

“Heartiest congratulations and best wishes to @Keir_Starmer on the remarkable victory,” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote on X. “I look forward to our positive and constructive collaboration fostering mutual growth and prosperity.”

“I look forward to working together with him [Starmer] and his new government to bring our hostages home, to build a better future for the region, and to deepen the close friendship between Israel and the United Kingdom,” Israeli President Isaac Herzog said on X. Herzog also expressed “deepest “appreciation and gratitude” to Sunak “for standing with the Israeli people especially during this most difficult period”.

“As close friends and Allies, I am looking forward to working with you to enhance our common security and prosperity,” Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson posted on X.  (Al Jazeera)

Photo: Britain’s Labour Party leader Keir Starmer reacts on stage as he is elected for the Holborn and St Pancras constituency, in London. The poll released moments after voting closed indicated that Labour leader Keir Starmer will be the country’s next prime minister. (AP) …[+]