Andy Burnham has arrived in Northern Ireland for his first visit as prime minister, beginning a programme of engagements in Belfast before talks with local political leaders.
He is expected to spend the initial part of the visit meeting community groups and civic organisations across the city. Those engagements are intended to give the prime minister direct contact with local concerns and community priorities.
Later in the visit, he will meet the leaders of Northern Ireland's main political parties. The meetings are planned as an opportunity for party leaders to set out their views to the UK government and for the prime minister to hear from representatives across the region's political spectrum.
The trip comes early in Mr Burnham's premiership and underscores the government's emphasis on engagement with Northern Ireland. Political visits to the region typically seek to reinforce ties with devolved institutions and to address issues affecting local communities and public services.
No detailed timetable for the visit has been published, and further statements from the prime minister's office or participating party leaders are expected as the meetings take place.