British Prime Minister David Cameron used President Obama’s visit to London Friday to make the case for the United Kingdom to remain in the European Union.
Speaking of the “special relationship” between the United States and the United Kingdom, Cameron said belonging to the 28-nation body has helped London.
“Our collective power and reach is amplified by Britain’s membership in the European Union,” Cameron said. “Let me be clear: When it comes to the special relationship between our two countries there is no greater enthusiast than me,” Cameron said during a joint news conference with Obama at 10 Downing Street.
“I’ve never felt constrained in anyway in strengthening this relationship by the fact that we’re in the European Union; in fact, quite the reverse,” Cameron said, adding that England’s membership in international bodies enhances the special relationship and helps Britain and the U.S. to “deliver for our people through them.”
Now is the time “to stand up for the values that our countries share,” Cameron said. This is the time “to stay true to those values and to stick together with our friends and allies in Europe and the world,” he concluded.
Voters in the United Kingdom will decide whether Britain remains in the EU during a June 23 referendum.
Cameron also emphasized his personal friendship with Obama.
“I am very proud to have stood outside the White House listening to my friend, Barack, say that our special relationship between our two countries has never been stronger,” Cameron said.
In his six years as prime minister, he said he’s gotten to know Obama well.
“I’m honored to have Barack as a friend,” Cameron said, adding that he’s “always found him as someone who gives sage advice; he’s a man with a very good heart” who “has always been a good friend to the United Kingdom.”
Obama repaid the compliment by saying that Cameron “has proven to be a great friend” and is a leader who has become one of his “most trusted” advisors.
