 "UK, EU recast old alliance through Post-Brexit deal on defence and security ties")
Britain and the European Union signed a sweeping agreement Monday to reset relations on defence and trade, marking a new phase in ties five years after the UK’s exit from the bloc.
The agreement, unveiled after a leaders’ summit in London, includes closer security coordination, the possibility of UK participation in EU military missions, and expanded economic cooperation. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the deal signals a “new era” in relations with the EU and is aimed at delivering real-world benefits, from lower energy prices to enhanced border security.
“This is a strategic partnership fit for our times,” Starmer said. “It will bring down bills, create jobs, and protect our borders.”
What do UK, EU get?
The defence pact allows for more regular security talks and opens the door for the UK to potentially access the EU’s 150-billion-euro defence fund, though the terms for full participation are yet to be finalized.
On trade, the two sides agreed to ease customs checks, especially on food and plant products. Downing Street said the new rules would remove the need for most certificates or inspections on goods moving between the UK and the EU. The UK government projects the changes will boost the British economy by nearly £9 billion by 2040.
As part of the deal, Britain will extend EU fishing rights in UK waters until June 2038, a concession that drew criticism from Conservative Party lawmakers, who called the move a “surrender.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the agreement represents a turning point.
“It is a big day because we are now turning the page and opening a new chapter,” she said. “That is so important in these times, because we see the rise of geopolitical tensions. But we are like-minded. We share values.”
Long night before the deal
The talks concluded after marathon negotiations that stretched late into the night to bridge lingering differences. EU Council President Antonio Costa and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also attended the signing of the new “Security and Defence Partnership.”
Two additional documents were signed: a joint declaration of solidarity and a Common Understanding covering trade, fisheries, and youth mobility.
The agreement does not restore full freedom of movement between the UK and the EU, which ended with Brexit. However, both sides agreed to work toward a “balanced youth experience scheme” to allow some citizens aged 18 to 30 to study and work across borders. Details are expected to be negotiated later.
Impact Shorts
View AllStarmer, who took office after his Labour Party’s landslide win in July, has ruled out rejoining the EU’s single market or customs union. Still, his government has sought to mend relations with the bloc, arguing that the Brexit deal signed by the previous Conservative leadership had created more barriers than benefits.
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