In an attempt to reset post-Brexit relations, Prime Minister Keir Starmer calls for European cooperation at the EPC summit, tackling issues from Ukraine support to migration and energy security. Here’s the full story.
Mending Strained Relationships
In an attempt to mend the strained relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union post-Brexit, Keir Starmer has called for deeper cooperation with Europe.
Collaborative Approach Needed
Speaking at the European Political Community (EPC) summit held in Blenheim Palace, Starmer stressed the need for a collaborative approach to addressing issues that plague both the UK and the EU: illegal migration, climate change, energy security, and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“A Friend and Partner”
Starmer told the gathering of more than 40 nations leaders, “Under my leadership, Britain will be a friend and a partner, ready to work with you, not part of the European Union, but very much part of Europe.”
Unified Support for Ukraine
A central theme of the EPC summit was the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Starmer underscored the importance of unified support for Ukraine, particularly in light of potential shifts in US foreign policy should Trump be reelected in November.
“Steadfast Support for Ukraine”
Starmer stated, “Our first task here today is to confirm our steadfast support for Ukraine.” Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy echoed this sentiment, appealing for Western allies to allow long-range strikes on Russia, especially targeting military airfields.
NATO Plans Command Centre
In response, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg announced plans for a command centre in Germany to coordinate military aid to Ukraine better.
Resetting UK-France Relations
In a one-on-one meeting on the sidelines of the EPC summit, Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron hailed the opportunity to reset UK-France relations. They pledged to enhance cooperation on defence, security, and cross-Channel migration.
Historical Ties and Commitments
In an article for Le Monde, Starmer acknowledged the historical ties between the two nations and reiterated their commitment to opposing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Macron reciprocated Starmer’s efforts, describing the British prime minister’s election as “a great opportunity for a reset.”
Tackling Cross-Channel Migration
Addressing the contentious issue of cross-Channel migration, Starmer highlighted the need for a collaborative European approach to combat human trafficking. He criticised the previous Conservative government’s controversial and illegal plan to deport asylum-seekers to Rwanda and promised a more humane strategy.
Combating People Smuggling
Starmer also vowed to respect international law and the ECHR while seeking solutions with France and other European partners to combat people smuggling in what Starmer referred to as a criminal enterprise which “profits from human misery and despair, sending countless innocent people to their deaths in the waters of the English Channel.”
Positive Media Reactions
Starmer’s call for a reset in UK-EU relations was met with positive reactions from European media. Annette Dittert, a correspondent for German broadcaster ARD, wrote on X, formerly Twitter, “Starmer managed to restore Britain’s reputation in Europe within a day. Astonishing achievement in such short time … What a complete change of tone and such a relief not having to report on Britain as a basket case anymore.”
German Delegation Hopeful
Der Spiegel, the German newspaper, wrote, “In the German delegation, there is hope that the cooperation with the British government under Starmer will significantly intensify, on the bilateral and the European level, on security and defence issues, on economic cooperation but also on delicate issues like migration.”
UK Right-Wing Skepticism
The reaction from the UK’s right-wing, billionaire-owned newspapers, which all backed Brexit, was considerably different, with GB News warning that Brexit is at risk.
“Beware the Greeks Bearing Gifts”
Speaking to the Murdoch-owned Sun, Former Conservative leader Ian Duncan Smith, an ardent Brexiteer, stated, “We have left the EU, and he [Starmer] pledged not to reverse it. They will want their pound of flesh for any new arrangements, and that will look like entry through the back door. Beware the Greeks bearing gifts.”
Building Personal Relationships
Starmer’s approach at the EPC summit extended beyond policy discussions to building personal relationships with other European leaders, such as hosting Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris at his country residence and entertaining Macron over dinner. These efforts were all aimed squarely at rebuilding the relationships strained to breaking point by each subsequent Conservative leader over the last 14 years.
New Chapter, New Challenges
While Starmer hopes that his first meeting with EU leaders as Prime Minister will mark a new chapter in UK-EU relations, some challenges remain. However, the overwhelmingly positive reception from European leaders and media underscores the potential for a strengthened partnership between the UK and Europe, breaking with the divisive rhetoric of the past.
Hopes for Shared Values
However, it remains to be seen whether Starmer’s hopes of a UK and Europe united by their “determination to defend shared values” are possible after the bitter and acrimonious Brexit years.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Alexandros Michailidis.
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