Cameron discusses key issues with President Obama

David Cameron is in Washington DC for his first official visit to the United States since becoming Prime Minister.

Today he had a three hour private meeting and working lunch with President Obama, during which they discussed Afghanistan, the Middle East, the Gulf of Mexico oil spill and the economy.

Speaking afterwards at a joint press conference with President Obama, Cameron said that the relationship between the UK and US was not only "special" but "essential".

Writing in the Wall St Journal as he arrived, he said the US-UK relationship was simple: "It's strong because it delivers for both of us. This is a partnership of choice that serves our national interests".

Whilst in the US, Cameron also plans to:

• Meet four US senators to discuss allegations surrounding the release of the Lockerbie bomber Abdel Baset al-Megrahi.
• Hold in-depth meetings with Vice-President Biden and senior members of Congress to discuss common issues including foreign policy, trade, the economy and the BP oil spill.
• Visit the Pentagon to be briefed on Afghanistan operations
• Travel to New York for talks with UN Secretary General Ban Ki-Moon on foreign policy issues and preparations for the Summit on the Millennium Development Goals in September.
• Meet with senior figures from the US business community to discuss the prospects for increased trade and investment with the UK before attending a dinner hosted by the Mayor of New York Michael Bloomberg.