The United Kingdom has begun talks with Germany to negotiate a new cooperation treaty, representing a significant step by the Labour government to “reset” relations with Europe in the post-Brexit era. British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is in Berlin to meet with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, where the two leaders will discuss potential collaboration in areas ranging from energy security and technology to defence and trade.
Starmer described the agreement as a crucial part of efforts to “turn a corner on Brexit,” aiming to mend the strained ties between the UK and its European neighbors following the UK’s departure from the European Union. Downing Street confirmed that the treaty would also address access to markets and trade across the North Sea, with hopes of finalizing the deal by early next year.
This initiative comes as part of Starmer’s broader agenda to strengthen the UK’s economic relationship with Europe, including pursuing a “much better” trade deal than the one negotiated by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson in 2020. The Labour government seeks to streamline border checks, reduce paperwork for touring artists, and improve recognition of professional qualifications to facilitate work abroad. Starmer also intends to negotiate a new security pact with the EU and reach an agreement for the return of failed asylum seekers.
Germany has expressed support for closer UK-EU ties, with Nils Schmid, the foreign affairs spokesperson for Scholz’s Social Democratic Party, noting that both leaders share a vision for improved cooperation. Discussions are expected to focus on trade, student mobility, and defence, with Germany particularly interested in facilitating study and work exchange programs for young people.
During his visit to Berlin, Starmer met with German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and is scheduled to meet business leaders from companies like Siemens Energy and Rheinmetall. Following his engagements in Germany, Starmer will travel to Paris to meet French President Emmanuel Macron and attend the opening ceremony of the Paralympics.
The proposed UK-Germany treaty is expected to expand an existing defence pact, announced last month, which includes plans for joint military equipment purchases and increased cyber warfare cooperation in light of potential shifts in US military support for Ukraine based on the results of the upcoming presidential election.
