Trump described Burnham as a “natural business person” and said relations between the United States and Britain were going well under the new prime minister. The two leaders had previously spoken by telephone before Tuesday’s meeting.

Burnham said the two had established a “good connection” during their earlier conversations and strengthened that relationship during their meeting in New York.

The leaders discussed a range of issues, including trade, immigration, Ukraine and other foreign policy matters. Burnham said the U.S.-UK relationship remained important and that his government intended to build on it.

Despite the positive tone, a significant disagreement remained over Britain’s proposed agreement to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius while retaining a long-term lease over Diego Garcia, home to a strategically important joint U.S.-UK military base.

Trump reiterated his opposition to the agreement, describing it as a “terrible deal.” The plan would transfer sovereignty over the archipelago to Mauritius while allowing Britain to maintain control of the Diego Garcia base under a 99-year lease. Implementation of the agreement has been delayed amid U.S. objections.

Asked whether the agreement was effectively dead, Burnham said his government would work with the United States and other parties to find a resolution that safeguards the future of the military base.

Burnham said Britain had experienced significant political turbulence in recent years and that his government wanted to present a more positive outlook for the country.

Tuesday’s meeting marked an important early diplomatic engagement for Burnham, who replaced Keir Starmer as prime minister in July.

The U.S.-UK relationship has faced disagreements over several foreign policy issues, but both leaders indicated after Tuesday’s talks that they intend to maintain close cooperation between the two countries.