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UK Proposes New Strategic Partnership with the EU
The United Kingdom is proposing a “new strategic partnership” with the European Union, aimed at enhancing trade relations and presenting a unified front amidst rising transatlantic tensions, particularly with Donald Trump’s administration challenging longstanding alliances.
A draft declaration, currently being prepared by London and Brussels ahead of a UK-EU summit scheduled for May 19, outlines a “common understanding” on various shared interests.
EU ambassadors are set to convene in Brussels for a briefing from officials who have been working intensively to identify areas of potential agreement over the coming year.
At the forefront of discussions is a proposed defence and security pact that would facilitate closer collaboration on the Ukraine conflict, alongside migration—an increasingly pressing issue for both sides of the English Channel.
The French government is actively seeking to establish new fishing arrangements, although diplomatic sources suggest there will be no immediate changes in this area.
Certain EU capitals are advocating for a “youth experience” program, which would enable EU nationals to spend at least 12 months in the UK under a reciprocal visa framework that would not contribute to overall migration statistics.
The draft communiqué, currently being refined, is intended to serve as the foundation for a political declaration and framework addressing a range of issues.
The draft emphasizes, “We confirmed our shared principles of maintaining global economic stability and our mutual commitment to free and open trade.” It also notes that both parties will continue to explore ways to manage the repercussions of fluctuations within the global economic landscape.
However, as the summit approaches, the United Kingdom is simultaneously engaged in tariff negotiations with the United States in an effort to secure a favorable deal, with Britain facing a 10% tariff compared to the EU’s 20%.
In a recent meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted the need to mobilize investments for renewable energy initiatives in the North Sea.
“We are friends. And we are Europeans, which means we share interests and democratic values. We are ready to address global challenges as like-minded partners,” von der Leyen stated following their discussions.
While Downing Street has refrained from commenting on the draft text, it affirmed that it aligns with the UK’s strategic goals.
Starmer’s spokesperson emphasized that the Prime Minister is committed to the significant advantages that a stronger partnership with the EU can bring—ranging from job creation and support for British businesses to the reduction of trade barriers and enhancing safety in an increasingly unpredictable global environment. “We expect to engage in discussions covering a wide spectrum of issues with the EU and look forward to an update from the summit,” the spokesperson added.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister has been vocal about the necessity of free and open trade, stating that the UK is focused on building global alliances to lower trade barriers, not only with the EU, but also with countries like the United States, India, and others.
Source
www.theguardian.com