The two leaders spoke about the pandemic, climate change, security and trade.

Johnson tweeted that it was "great" to speak to President Biden.

"I look forward to deepening the longstanding alliance between our two countries as we drive a green and sustainable recovery from COVID-19," he wrote on Saturday.

A Downing Street spokesman said Johnson welcomed Biden's decision to re-join the Paris Agreement, the World Health Organisation and the COVAX program to ensure equitable access for vaccines.

They also discussed the benefits of a potential free trade deal and Johnson committed to resolving trade issues as soon as possible, the spokesperson said.

Johnson praised Biden's early action on tackling climate change.

Building on their countries' history of security and defence cooperation, the leaders re-committed to the NATO alliance, promoting human rights and protecting democracy.

Biden's first call to a foreign leader after his inauguration was to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday.

Biden also spoke to Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, the White House said on Saturday.

Australian Associated Press