TLDR:
- British PM Keir Starmer visits Brussels to improve EU-UK relations
- Talks focus on security, migration, trade, and energy
- Starmer aims to move past Brexit tensions while not rejoining EU
- EU proposes mobility scheme for young people, rejected by UK
- Discussions include fisheries arrangements and artist/musician touring
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer traveled to Brussels on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, for a one-day visit aimed at improving relations between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
This marks a first step in rebuilding ties that have been strained since Brexit four years ago.
Starmer’s visit included meetings with key EU figures, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, EU Council President Charles Michel, and European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. The talks focused on several important areas of cooperation, including security, migration, trade, and energy.
The Labour Party leader, who took office after a decisive election victory on July 4, has expressed his determination to move past the Brexit era and establish a more practical relationship with the EU. Starmer stated, “The U.K. is undeniably stronger when it works in lockstep with its closest international partners.”
He emphasized the importance of cooperation in the face of current global challenges, noting, “This has never been more important — with war, conflict and insecurity all knocking on Europe’s door.”
While Starmer aims to reduce some of the post-Brexit barriers for people and goods, he has made it clear that he does not intend to reverse Brexit or rejoin the EU’s single market and customs union. This stance has left some EU officials questioning how far the new government is willing to go in negotiating a closer relationship.
One of the proposals put forward by the EU is a mobility scheme that would allow young people from both the UK and EU to study, work, and live in each other’s territories for short periods. However, Downing Street has already ruled out this initial offer, though diplomats suggest that a new proposal may be forthcoming.
Fisheries remain a sensitive issue in the discussions, particularly for the Irish fishing sector. The current arrangements, which are part of the post-Brexit trade agreement, are set for review in 2026 and are linked to the two-way energy market between the UK and EU.
Another topic on the agenda is the possibility of greater flexibility for British artists and musicians to tour in the EU. This issue has been a point of contention since former Prime Minister Boris Johnson rejected more favorable arrangements during the trade deal negotiations, citing concerns about potential implications for free movement.
The meetings in Brussels are seen as a test of the waters for future cooperation. There are discussions about the possibility of an EU-UK summit in the first part of next year, which could further solidify the renewed relationship between the two parties.
Starmer’s visit represents a shift in tone from previous UK governments, with a focus on pragmatism and cooperation. He stated,
“I am determined to put the Brexit years behind us and establish a more pragmatic and mature relationship with the European Union.”
The EU, for its part, appears receptive to improving relations with the UK.
