British Prime Minister Theresa May and U.S. President Donald Trump both signaled a desire Tuesday to expand trade between their nations as they began a series of meetings in London.

Speaking at a business roundtable event, Trump said he thinks the two sides will reach a "very, very substantial trade deal" that is "very fair."

May said Britain and the United States could expand their economic partnership with a bilateral trade deal and that her governmentbelieves in "keeping markets free, fair and open."

Trump has pursued new trade arrangements with a number of major U.S. trade partners, including China, with a stated goal of making terms more friendly to the United States.

In addition to speaking with business leaders, Trump and May are holding bilateral talks and a working lunch Tuesday before appearing at a joint news conference.

Trump and his wife Melania will then have dinner with Prince Charles and his wife, Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall.

Monday was a day full of pomp and circumstance with Britain's Queen Elizabeth greeting President Trump and Melania after they arrived at Buckingham Palace by helicopter. After a welcoming ceremony that included a 41-gun salute, the Trumps had a private lunch with the queen and a tour of the palace art gallery.

Source : VOA