Keir Starmer has crossed the English Channel to attend a European summit, becoming the first British leader to participate in such a meeting since the United Kingdom left the European community five years ago. This marks another step in the gradual improvement of relations that began in October last year when Starmer visited Brussels to meet with European officials. On this occasion, he was invited to a dinner discussion about the future of European defense policy following significant changes in international politics. This area appears to be one where London and Brussels may find common ground. A United Kingdom Summit is scheduled to take place in the first months of 2025, which will be a key test of whether greater understanding between the parties is possible.
“Now is the time to step forward on all fronts, both with the US and the EU. It is not time to go back on either front,” said Starmer during a press conference with NATO Secretary-General at the Alliance’s headquarters in Brussels, before joining the dinner with twenty-seven other leaders. Starmer emphasized the importance of moving forward in relations with both the United States and the European Union.
Since his time in opposition, Starmer has expressed interest in “restarting” relations with the European Union. However, in Brussels, there is a sense of caution, with leaders waiting to see if Starmer’s intentions are genuine before making any significant moves. In April, the European Executive proposed an exchange program that would allow young people between 18 and 30 years old from both sides of the English Channel to participate in cultural, educational, and research exchanges for up to four years. This proposal is seen as a potential area of cooperation between the UK and the EU.