The EU-UK summit took place in London on May 19, 2025, marking the first such summit since the UK’s withdrawal from the EU . Key figures who participated were António Costa, President of the European Council, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom . Kaja Kallas, High Representative, and Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič also participated .
The summit focused on resetting post-Brexit relations and fostering cooperation on trade, security, and foreign policy . The leaders agreed to a new strategic partnership built upon the Withdrawal Agreement, the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement .
Key Outcomes:
- Strategic Partnership: Aims to build on existing agreements and develop a dynamic relationship .
- Security and Defence Partnership: Establishes cooperation across various areas like regional security, crisis management, maritime and space security, and cyber issues . NATO remains the cornerstone of collective defense for the UK and EU member states who are NATO allies .
- Renewed Agenda for Cooperation: Explores potential to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the EU and the UK .
Global Priorities Discussed:
- Russia’s War Against Ukraine: Reaffirmed condemnation of Russia’s aggression and commitment to supporting Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity . Called for a full ceasefire and supported accountability for war crimes .
- Middle East: Leaders expressed commitment to an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and unimpeded humanitarian aid . They also voiced concerns about Iran’s nuclear program and regional behavior .
- Irregular Migration: Recognized the shared challenge of irregular migration and the need for a comprehensive approach, including securing external borders and combating human trafficking .
Renewed Agenda for EU-UK Cooperation:
- People-to-People Ties: Focus on deepening connections, especially for the younger generation, through a balanced youth experience scheme and potential UK association with the Erasmus+ program .
- Economic and Environmental Issues: Explored the UK’s possible participation in the EU’s internal electricity market, a common sanitary and phytosanitary area, and linking emission trading systems .
- Internal Security and Judicial Cooperation: Aims to strengthen cooperation in law enforcement, finalize agreements regarding collaboration between Europol and the UK’s National Crime Agency, and reinforce data exchanges .
- Fisheries: Agreed to full reciprocal access to waters beyond June 30, 2026, until June 30, 2038, providing stability for fishers .
Moving Forward:
- Regular high-level meetings will address strategic interests such as economy, trade, justice, and home affairs .
- Foreign and security policy dialogues are planned every six months .
- Annual summits will strengthen the relationship and ensure progress on agreements .
In summary, the 2025 EU-UK summit was the first leader-level meeting since Brexit, with discussions spanning a wide range of topics from security and defense to economic cooperation and global challenges . The summit resulted in a new strategic partnership and renewed commitment to cooperation .
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