Miliband And Obama In 'Warm And Friendly' Talks

Ed Miliband has had what has been described as a "very warm and friendly" meeting with US President Barack Obama at the White House.

Mr Obama stopped by during talks between the Labour leader and US National Security Advisor Susan Rice for around 25 minutes, a party aide said.

Their exchanges are believed to have touched on a range of international issues.

A spokesperson for Mr Miliband said: "The Leader of the Opposition and the President discussed a range of issues, including the situation in Ukraine, Gaza, and the future of the European Union.

"The pair also discussed the economy, climate change and the approaching referendum in Scotland. The meeting lasted around 25 minutes."

Speaking afterwards, a White House spokesperson said: "Mr Miliband was meeting with Ambassador Rice to discuss issues of shared concern, including the situations in Ukraine, Israel/Gaza, and Iraq.

"The President and Mr Miliband affirmed the strong ties that bind the United States and the United Kingdom."

Such visits are seen as important for opposition leaders in the run-up to a general election, as they seek to present an image as a player on the world stage.

The pair have met previously, at Buckingham Palace in 2011.