Robertson: wants to strengthen special relationship

Robertson On Defence Trip To US

He will visit United Nations headquarters for a meeting with the UK Permanent Representative to the UN Sir John Weston, and Rolf Ekeus, head of the UN Special Commission.

Following this Mr Robertson will fly to Washington where he is to have in depth talks with his US counterpart William Cohen and to meet other members of the Clinton administration, Congress and the Senate.

"I am delighted to be meeting William Cohen and other leading political figures to build on the excellent start this Government has made in strengthening Anglo-American relations following President Clinton's highly successful visit on Thursday," Mr Robertson said.

The Defence Secretary continued, "We will continue to base our defence on our belief in the fundamental and enduring importance of NATO, and I am confident that this visit will reinforce our strong security relationship."