PM call with President Kast of Chile: 23 October 2026

The Prime Minister and President Kast of Chile held a call to strengthen UK-Chile relations, focusing on defence, security, science, and trade. Both leaders highlighted the need to modernise defence capabilities together, reflecting shared strategic priorities. Discussions also covered the importance of preserving the Falkland Islanders’ right to self-determination as a key UK interest. Cultural, scientific, and people-to-people links were noted for their role in boosting investment and infrastructure opportunities between the nations.

The leaders acknowledged untapped trade potential and agreed to pursue closer economic ties to enhance bilateral cooperation. Both sides emphasised the mutual benefits of expanding trade and investment flows between the UK and Chile. The conversation underscored the value of existing cultural and scientific collaborations in driving economic growth. Modernising defence capabilities was framed as a joint effort to address evolving regional security challenges.

President Kast and the Prime Minister reviewed progress on strengthening UK-Chile relations across multiple sectors. They discussed concrete steps to deepen defence and security partnerships, including potential joint initiatives. The right of Falkland Islanders to self-determination was reiterated as a non-negotiable principle for the UK. Cultural exchanges and scientific cooperation were identified as catalysts for further economic and infrastructure development.

The call concluded with a commitment to formalise plans for closer trade and investment collaboration in the coming months. Both leaders recognised the strategic importance of expanding bilateral ties amid global economic shifts. The discussion reflected a shared vision to leverage existing links for broader mutual gains. Modernising defence capabilities was positioned as a cornerstone of the strengthened partnership.