Senior official signals potential for a future UK-EU summit amid ongoing discussions
European leaders are showing an “open-minded” approach towards resetting relations with the UK, according to a senior EU official. As leaders prepare for a meeting at Blenheim Palace, they emphasize that the initiative now rests firmly with the UK to make a move on key issues such as youth mobility and citizens’ rights.
Before the European Political Community (EPC) forum on Thursday, the EU official expressed optimism about future collaboration, hinting that a UK-EU summit is not off the table. However, they made it clear that the UK must first present proposals to kickstart discussions.
Labour leader Keir Starmer plans to reshape the relationship with Europe, although this topic will not formally appear on the EPC agenda. Instead, Starmer is expected to address it during two bilateral meetings: one with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris at Chequers and another with French President Emmanuel Macron in Oxfordshire.
“We are open-minded about what can be achieved,” the EU official stated, highlighting demands for improved youth mobility and enhanced cooperation. There is also a strong appetite within the EU for better coordination on foreign policy and a reevaluation of the trading relationship, which has become complicated due to Brexit-related customs and standards documentation.
However, EU sources firmly reiterated that the original Brexit deal is not up for renegotiation, aligning with Prime Minister Starmer’s pledge that the UK would not re-enter the EU single market or customs union. New EU Relations Minister Nick Thomas-Symonds recently visited Brussels for initial discussions with Maroš Šefčovič, the European Commission Vice-President responsible for UK relations.
Sources indicated that Starmer’s meetings at last week’s NATO summit went positively, and the EU acknowledges the UK’s desire for a relationship reset. If the UK expresses interest in forming a new strategic partnership, the EU would be receptive to such proposals.
When asked about the possibility of a UK-EU summit similar to those held with other non-EU countries, senior officials stated that “nothing is being excluded.” Around 45 leaders from both EU and non-EU countries are expected at Blenheim Palace, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy.
This informal summit, initiated by Macron, aims to facilitate closer connections among prime ministers in ways that larger meetings do not allow. Macron will co-chair a working group on defence and democracy with Maia Sandu, President of Moldova, while Charles Michel, President of the European Council, will lead another group focused on the same theme.
Additionally, Italy’s Giorgia Meloni and Albania’s Edi Rama will again chair a working group on migration. At the previous EPC in Spain, they, along with Rishi Sunak, Macron, and the former Dutch Prime Minister, agreed on a five-point plan to combat people smuggling.
One EU diplomat noted that the EPC summit presents an opportunity for Starmer to adopt a new stance on migration following the abandonment of Sunak’s Rwanda deportation plan. Discussions will also cover energy issues, with some countries pushing for ad hoc projects related to cultural heritage protection and rail interconnectivity.
EU member states are keen to discuss youth mobility and the Erasmus university exchange programme, which they view as vital for fostering cross-border understanding among younger generations. “Otherwise, they will grow up without knowing each other, which would be detrimental for Europe,” warned one diplomat.
The Guardian
European leaders are showing an “open-minded” attitude toward resetting relations with the UK, as indicated by a senior EU official ahead of a meeting at Blenheim Palace. They emphasize that the initiative for renewed ties lies with the UK, expecting proposals on youth mobility and citizens’ rights to initiate discussions.
Although the Labour government’s plans for reshaping UK-EU relations are not formally on the agenda for the European Political Community (EPC) meeting, Keir Starmer is set to address this during bilateral talks with Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris and French President Emmanuel Macron. EU sources express a desire for better coordination on youth mobility and citizens’ rights, while acknowledging challenges in the trading relationship stemming from Brexit.
Despite a clear appetite for cooperation, officials reiterate that the original Brexit deal is not open for renegotiation, aligning with the UK Prime Minister’s pre-election stance against rejoining the EU’s single market or customs union. New EU relations minister Nick Thomas-Symonds recently met with Maroš Šefčovič, highlighting ongoing interest in a strategic relationship.
With around 45 leaders attending the summit, including Volodymyr Zelenskiy, the EPC aims to foster informal discussions among prime ministers on key issues like defence, democracy, and migration. Starmer is expected to set a different tone regarding migration policies, especially after the UK government’s abandonment of the Rwanda deportation plan. Additionally, many EU leaders are keen to promote youth mobility and university exchange programs to strengthen future cross-border relations among younger generations.
The Independent
Shortly after Labour’s election victory, Sir Keir Starmer is prioritizing a reset of post-Brexit relations with the EU. Nick Thomas-Symonds, the new Europe minister, travelled to Brussels to engage in discussions with EU Commission Vice-President Maros Sefcovic, signalling the government’s commitment to renegotiating Brexit relations without seeking to rejoin the EU or customs union.
While some believed that Rishi Sunak’s Windsor Framework would conclude Brexit negotiations, Starmer highlighted ongoing issues with the trade agreement established by Boris Johnson, particularly regarding border delays. The agenda for discussions includes potential free movement of people, with an emphasis on youth mobility.
Thomas-Symonds aims to establish groundwork for closer cooperation on various issues, reflecting the government’s dedication to strengthening UK-EU ties amidst shared global challenges. His visit follows positive introductory calls and aims to enhance relations in light of current geopolitical tensions.
Part of the discussions will involve creating a new defence and security pact with the EU, including participation in the Permanent Structured Cooperation (Pesco). Thomas-Symonds expressed optimism about fostering stronger alliances, emphasizing the importance of a robust UK-EU partnership to tackle issues like climate change and illegal migration.
Sefcovic welcomed the engagement, recognizing the EU and UK as close partners facing common challenges, and expressed eagerness to explore avenues for enhanced cooperation based on existing agreements.
Financial Times
Keir Starmer faces a significant opportunity to reset UK-EU relations as he chairs the European Political Community (EPC) summit at Blenheim Palace. This informal gathering of 47 European states provides a platform for vital bilateral discussions, crucial given the absence of formal political meetings between the UK and EU.
Starmer’s government aims to position the UK as a leading nation in Europe, with a commitment to improving relationships with European partners. His approach contrasts with a competitive mindset, signalling a willingness to foster cooperation. The summit’s timing is advantageous, as the UK government enjoys strong domestic standing amidst a tumultuous Conservative leadership race, while the ongoing war in Europe underscores the need for enhanced security collaboration.
The success of Starmer’s efforts will depend on translating goodwill into tangible outcomes. Key challenges include persuading the EU to relax restrictions on British involvement in initiatives like the European Defence Fund and addressing trade barriers effectively. The EU’s attitude towards negotiations remains uncertain, particularly with its focus on “strategic autonomy,” which may continue to frame the UK as a competitor.
Starmer’s domestic strategy is equally important; any steps toward closer EU relations must be resilient against potential future Tory reversals to ensure that negotiations are productive. Unlike Tony Blair, who struggled to garner domestic support for EU membership, Starmer must navigate these complexities to secure lasting progress. Ultimately, while the summit presents a chance for positive change, meaningful action is needed to transform goodwill into substantive advancements.
