US progressive senator Bernie Sanders backs UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

US Senator Bernie Sanders

US Senator Bernie Sanders has voiced support for UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn.

Speaking at the southern British seaside resort of Brighton at ceremony promoting his book, the 75-year-old American politician said he was impressed by the British Labour leader and his efforts to reach out to the grassroots and transform the UK Labour party.

“What has impressed … is he has taken on the establishment of the Labour party, he has gone to the grassroots and he has tried to transform that party,” said Sanders on Thursday shortly after getting off the plane.

The former Democratic presidential candidate praised Corbyn, 68, for his willingness to address class issues, saying most politicians avoid talking about the subject of class conflict due to the sensitivity of the matter.

““I am also impressed by his willingness to talk about class issues…. Too many people run away from the grotesque levels of income and wealth inequality that exist in the United States, the UK and all over the world," Sanders said.

Sanders pointed out that social justice will be the outcome of positive changes made by politicians and policy makers.

“Our job is to create economies that work for working people – that uplift the poor, not make the very richest almost unbelievably rich while leaving everyone else behind. … We will never make the kind of changes we need unless we take on the levels of inequality that exist,” he said.

Sanders likened himself to Corbyn and cited similarities between recent developments in the US and the UK.

He said the election of President Donald Trump in the US and the British people voting for Brexit were both negative outcomes of inequalities in society.    

“These are not American issues, or British issues – these are international issues ... This is a global issue and we must address it,” the American progressive champion noted.

However, he said, that Corbyn was totally aware of the situation and doing a good job.  

UK Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn campaigning in Beeston, Nottinghamshire on June 3, 2017. (Photo by AFP)

“I don’t think Jeremy Corbyn needs my advice," Sanders said, adding, "He is doing quite well,” further adding, “I wish him the very best.”

Pundits concur with Sanders, saying Corbyn's campaign tactics are similar the senior American politician.