President Obama was full of jokes on Wednesday during an arrival ceremony for British Prime Minister David Cameron, remarking that it has been 200 years since the British first came to town “under somewhat different circumstances” and tried to torch the White House.
“They made quite an impression,” Obama said, drawing laughter from a crowd of more than 5,000 gathered on the South Lawn. “They really lit up the place,” he continued, referring to the War of 1812. “But we’ve moved on.”
A few minutes later, Obama borrowed a few terms from the British, telling Cameron that he is “chuffed to bits” that he is visiting.
“I’m looking forward to a great natter,” he joked. “I’m confident that together we’re going to keep the relationship between our two great nations absolutely top-notch.”
On a more serious note, Obama called the U.S. relationship with England “the greatest alliance the world has every known.” He called their relationship “indispensable,” “essential,” and “rock solid” and said it is stronger than it has ever been. In short remarks following Obama’s speech, Cameron reiterated more of the same.
