Pictured: Albania's 6ft 7in tall PM towers over Keir Starmer at Blenheim Palace Europe summit

Sir Keir Starmer found himself dwarfed by Albania's towering Prime Minister as he welcomed European leaders to Blenheim Palace for a crucial summit on Thursday.

The Labour leader, who has been in office for just a few weeks, was photographed greeting Edi Rama, Albania's 6ft 7inch tall premier, at the entrance to the grand Oxfordshire estate.

Mr Rama's imposing stature was further accentuated by his choice of casual footwear, as he sported a pair of white trainers that stood out against the formal attire of other attendees.

Prime Minister of Albania Edi Rama arrives at the European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace (Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire)

The stark height difference between the two leaders - Starmer is just 5ft 8in, provided a striking visual as Sir Keir hosted his first international meeting as Prime Minister.

The 'Meeting of the European Political Community' marks a significant step in Mr Starmer's efforts to improve UK-EU relations following Brexit.

Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, provided a historic backdrop for the gathering of European political figures.

This summit follows recent diplomatic efforts by the new Labour government, including Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds' trip to Italy to forge new trade links. It represents a clear shift in foreign policy, with Starmer eager to mend relations with European partners.

(POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

As the summit got underway, a steady stream of high-profile leaders arrived at the palace. French President Emmanuel Macron was seen striding confidently up the steps, ready to engage in discussions onpressing European issues.

Viktor Orbán, the controversial Hungarian Prime Minister, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky have also both arrived at Blenheim Palace.