1. US-UK:Friends with Benefits “The rock upon which all dictators this century have perished” George H.W. Bush By: Kevin Graf

2. The Issue The US has had a unique relationship with the UK They have been our closest ally since 1890s

3. History of Relationship Shared Common Law heritage Mutual economic investments Diplomatic and security ties

4. Common Law Heritage America was founded on British idea of a law based state

5. Common Heritage English speaking countries share common values and beliefs

6. Mutual Economic Investments Mutually reduced role of government between the two countries economically US invests in UK over 300 billion dollars (30% more than the second leading country) US-UK trade services mostly which makes them our biggest trade partner

7. Diplomatic & Security Ties Allies in both WWI & WWII Winston Churchill and FDR realized importance of a close military alliance US defense companies are commonly in competition for UK military contracts

8. Diplomacy Cont….. Strategic allies in information and technology US has given the UK nuclear technologies that have surpassed other European powers Both founders of many international organizations such as NATO, WTO and the G-8

9. Problems with the “special relationship” European integration has made it more difficult for the UK and US to be in a closed relationship Britain has lost some sovereignty with formation of the EU Kyoto Protocol and Ottawa Convention Iraq war UK is becoming more anti-American

10. Solutions Reduce the need of US support by relying more on fellow EU states Less military interaction and support from the UK

11. My plan Continue a strong economic relationship The United States could use the UK as an ally to ensure US interests in the EU The UK is our access point to the rest of Europe