Brussels: British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is poised to advocate for a reset in UK-EU relations during his meeting with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The meeting, described by Brussels as a ‘first conversation,’ will primarily focus on major issues such as trade, security, and youth mobility.
Although Starmer has made it clear that his government won’t seek to renegotiate the entire Brexit deal, he plans to adjust aspects of the current relationship. While both the UK and the European Union are eager to collaborate on a joint security pact, discussions around trade and the movement of people and goods could be more challenging.
Ahead of the talks, Starmer stressed the importance of moving beyond the tensions of the Brexit era. “We will only be able to tackle international challenges by working together, which is why I am so determined to put the Brexit years behind us and build a more pragmatic and mature relationship with the EU,” Starmer said in a statement.
Since his Labour Party’s election win in July, Starmer has embarked on a diplomatic tour, visiting Berlin, Paris, Rome, and Dublin to lay the groundwork for renewed ties with the EU. In Brussels, alongside von der Leyen, Starmer will also meet with European Council President Charles Michel and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola.
A European Commission spokesperson remarked that the initial meeting will be the beginning of a broader conversation. “The word reset is being used by both sides,” the spokesperson said, indicating the probability of future cooperation.
Starmer has ruled out returning to the EU’s single market, customs union, or reinstating freedom of movement. However, the British PM is seeking specific agreements to ease border checks through a veterinary agreement and facilitate access for UK artists touring the EU. Keir Starmer also hopes for mutual recognition of certain professional qualifications, all part of his effort to foster closer cooperation without reversing Brexit.
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