London/Brussels, 19 May 2025
Remarks by President António Costa at the joint press conference following the EU-UK summit in London
Let me begin by thanking Prime Minister Keir Starmer for hosting us here in London for what has been a timely and truly productive summit.
A few months ago, Prime Minister, you spoke of your ambition to reset the relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union.
Today, I am proud to say — we, together, have delivered on that ambition. You have succeeded. We all succeeded.
The agreements we have reached today mark not just progress but a new chapter in the relationship between the UK and the EU. The start of a renewed and strengthened Strategic Partnership.
Over the past months, we have worked tirelessly to rebuild trust. As we discussed during my visit to Downing Street in December, in an increasingly volatile world, deeper collaboration between like-minded partners — natural allies like us — is not a luxury. It is a necessity.
Then, back in February, I invited you to join the EU27 leaders at a retreat in Brussels to discuss defence matters.
There, I felt a new, positive energy in our relationship. I saw the great potential of what we can accomplish together — to make real, tangible progress for the people of the EU and the UK.
Since then, we have worked hand in hand. To support Ukraine. To increase pressure on Russia. To stabilize and strengthen the transatlantic partnership. And to uphold international law and defending the United Nations Charter amid growing security threats.
We have to be proud of the fruits of that collective effort:
- a Joint Statement on cooperation on global issues,
- a Security and Defence Partnership, and
- a Common Understanding and a Renewed Agenda for Cooperation.
These agreements represent more than just words on paper. They are a reflection of our shared commitments — to security, to prosperity, to development, and to the people we serve on both sides of the Channel.
Our relationship is grounded in shared values, mutual interests, and the simple fact of our geographical closeness.
We are neighbours, allies, partners. And we are friends.
Times are changing. The rules-based international order is under attack. Multilateralism is being tested. The EU and UK are providers of global stability. We must be guardians of the rules based global order. Europe faces the gravest security threat in decades — provoked by Russia’s brutal war of aggression against Ukraine. But both the UK and the EU are united in one belief: We share a fundamental responsibility for the security of Europe.
That is why we are committed to continuing our efforts — together — to achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine. A peace that guarantees Ukraine’s independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The ball is now in Russia’s court. Together, we will intensify pressure on President Putin — including through a new package of sanctions — to bring him to the negotiating table. Russia must agree to an unconditional ceasefire.
It must stop being a threat to Ukraine and to European security.
On defence, our new partnership will bring deeper cooperation. It will strengthen Europe’s contribution to NATO. And it will sharpen our focus on common strategic priorities.
On trade, we are united in our commitment to economic stability. We both believe in free trade, fair, sustainable, and open, as the engine of prosperity — for our citizens and for the global economy. On migration, we will work together to reduce irregular flows and to strengthen cooperation with countries of origin and transit.
And finally, today we also addressed the situation in the Middle East. In particular, we addressed the tragic humanitarian crisis in Gaza — a tragedy where international law is being systematically violated, and an entire population is subjected to disproportionate military force. There must be safe, swift and unimpeded access for humanitarian aid. The remaining hostages must be unconditionally released. And a permanent ceasefire must be reached — now. Our discussion reaffirmed our shared conviction that lasting peace and security in the Middle East can only be achieved through the implementation of a two-state solution.
Prime Minister, dear Keir, your leadership has been instrumental in turning ambition into action. Today’s agreements are a testament to your determination and to the new tone you have brought to our relationship.
The United Kingdom and the European Union are stronger when we stand together — For prosperity, for security and for peace in Europe and beyond. This is the message that underpins our renewed cooperation. This is the direction we are taking, together, after this successful summit — which will be just the first of many. Because as we have agreed today, from now on, the European Union and the United Kingdom will meet every year. So — see you in Brussels!
Source – European Council
Statement by President von der Leyen at the joint press conference with President Costa and UK Prime Minister Starmer following the EU-UK Summit
Thank you very much, António. Thank you for your words.
My dear Keir, this is a historic moment because it is the first ever EU-UK summit, and it is a success. And this is also thanks to your leadership. And I really want to thank you for the leadership also in the weeks and months of preparation and hard work to get to this excellent result.
We are turning a page. We are opening a new chapter in our unique relationship. This is the story of historical and natural partners standing side by side on the global stage, facing the same challenges, pursuing the same objectives, like-minded, sharing the same values, and thus we are looking for solutions that are beneficial for both our people and standing shoulder by shoulder when it comes to really getting to the solutions. I want to have a look at the Common Understanding, which is basically the roadmap that we have agreed on to follow after this Summit.
First, we have concluded our security and defence partnership. This will boost our cooperation in security and defence initiatives. There are lots of topics covered, for example, on the defence industry, but also military mobility, peace building, crisis management, or the countering of hybrid threats, just to name a few. And this is the first step towards UK participation in Europe’s defence investment programme. We call it SAFE. It is EUR 150 billion of loans for joint procurement. This security and defence partnership opens the door towards the joint procurement. We need another second step, but this joint procurement we have discussed will increase our readiness, will close military gaps that we have and will increase – that is of most importance – our interoperability when our armed forces are going on missions together.
It will create new opportunities, of course, for our defence industries and, as I said, enable stronger, more coordinated support also for Ukraine. That is important, either through joint procurement of military capabilities that then are brought to Ukraine or for direct investment in Ukraine’s defence industry. We stand united behind Ukraine’s fight for survival and that we are strongly committed to a full and unconditional ceasefire leading to a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
My second point is that I want to speak about what lies at the heart of our partnership, and that is the people. Millions of families and friendships are on both sides of the Channel. I am thinking back of my times as a student here in London. And from that experience, I know that the first place when you go abroad as a young person leaves an impression for life. You fall in love with the city and the country. And for the rest of your life, you are the best ambassador for that country. Therefore, I am so glad that we have agreed that we will have Erasmus+ for young people and that we will work towards a youth experience scheme, just about this experience. This will allow the next generation to once again live and study in each other’s countries, and this will build friendships that will last a lifetime.
Turning to what connects us further, that is the topic of energy and joint climate goals. Today we have decided to explore the UK participation in the EU’s electricity market. It is good for the stability of energy flows. It is good for our common energy security. Because we know that a bigger market will also be good for lowering the energy prices and it will attract more private investment because of the regulatory stability and predictability. We need to tap into the vast potential that the North Sea offers, specifically for renewable, cheap and homegrown energy. In addition, we are both committed to leading by example on the path to net zero. And that is why we have also agreed to work towards linking our emission trading system. A larger integrated system is a big step forward in decarbonisation and creates a level playing-field.
Today we also decided to facilitate trade flows of agri-food products between us and to work towards a common Sanitary and Phytosanitary area. It means more certainty and more stability for our farmers, food producers and fishermen and fisherwomen on both sides of the Channel. Safer food, with greater trust from consumers. Together with the Windsor Framework, this will bring additional benefits for Northern Ireland. It will further ease the movement of agri-food goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland will continue to enjoy dual access to both the EU Single Market and the UK internal market. In addition, we have reached an agreement on fisheries. Ensuring reciprocal access to waters until 2038. This is so important for long-term stability and predictability. And we have agreed to preserve the historic tariff-free trade in steel products. Steel is a vital sector for both of our industries. So, this decision is great news.
Finally, on justice and migration. We are stepping up our cooperation to keep our citizens safe. That means more joint operational work, especially through Europol and seamless exchange of information. Because crime does not stop at borders and neither should our response. On illegal migration, we are joining forces to crack down on smugglers and traffickers – this is organised crime. Our goal is clear: We want to protect our borders and prevent further tragedies. Therefore, we are also stepping up our joint cooperation with third countries. As you know, we, on the European Union side, have made this one of our priorities and we welcome that the UK is joining us in this effort.
Dear Keir,
What we have agreed today is historic. It will make a real difference to people in the UK and across our Union. But the message we are sending to the world today is equally – if not more – important. It is a message that at a time of global instability – and when our continent faces the greatest threats it has for generations – we in Europe stick together. A strong EU-UK relationship is of fundamental importance to that – for our security, our prosperity and our shared destiny on this continent. This is what it is all about today. So, thank you for hosting us. It was a great Summit. And thank you very much for your leadership.
Source – EU Commission
Statement by MEP David McAllister (CDU) on the EU-UK Summit
On the outcomes of today’s EU–UK summit, David McAllister (CDU), Chair of the Foreign Affairs Committee in the European Parliament, stated:
“The outcomes of today’s summit in London form a solid foundation for a deeper and strategically oriented partnership between the United Kingdom and the EU.
For the first time, a structured framework has been established in the form of the new security and defence partnership. This partnership reflects a high degree of alignment in assessing global threat scenarios and includes, among other things, regular high-level dialogues, coordination on peace missions, cooperation in the defence industry, cybersecurity, protection of critical infrastructure, maritime security, and resilience against hybrid threats.
In internal security and judicial cooperation, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to technically deepen the existing collaboration under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement – for example, through improved data sharing, enhanced operational contacts between Europol and UK authorities, and joint approaches in combating terrorism, serious organised crime, and cyber threats.
Progress on youth mobility is also encouraging. The planned bilateral mobility scheme will once again give young people on both sides access to exchange opportunities – such as for study or voluntary service. This “people-to-people” format is intended to close existing gaps. In addition, talks were agreed on the possibility of the United Kingdom associating with the Erasmus+ programme.
The political agreement on mutual access to respective fishing waters until 2038 is another key outcome. This provides long-term planning certainty for both the British and continental European fishing industries – including in our regions of Cuxhaven and Bremerhaven.
The concrete implementation of the existing Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, as well as the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, remains the benchmark for trust and reliability in our bilateral relations. This is the foundation we must continue to build upon.”
e-translated by ChatGPT, prompted by Insight EU
Disclaimer: This English translation is provided for informational purposes only. In the event of any discrepancies or legal interpretations, the original German version shall prevail and is the only legally binding text.
MEPs Bernd Lange and Tobias Cremer (both SPD) on the EU–UK summit: “A new foundation of trust established”
Today, the first official EU–UK summit since Brexit concluded in London. At the meeting, the EU and the United Kingdom agreed on a security and defence pact. They also decided to extend access rights for European fishers in British waters—originally set to expire at the end of June 2026—until the end of 2038. Furthermore, both sides committed to working towards agreements on energy, agricultural and food regulations, climate, and the mobility of people.
Bernd Lange, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade and Co-Chair of the EU–UK Contact Group:
“It’s a promising start. The doors are open again. Let us not forget where we came from. In a very short time, the partners have built a new foundation of trust that enables a deeper rapprochement. The jointly selected goals, laid out like a roadmap, are realistic and achievable. This momentum must now be used to swiftly launch concrete initiatives that benefit citizens on both sides—such as in youth mobility or mutual food and agricultural inspections.
Especially in trade, we should eliminate all remaining barriers—based on and in full implementation of our Trade and Cooperation Agreement. A pragmatic approach is needed, one that benefits businesses. Today’s institutionalised fresh start provides the right framework. Now it’s up to us to see how this restart will translate into concrete measures. It’s also very positive that such a long-term solution has been found for fishing rights. Our fishers now finally have planning certainty. This also means the topic can no longer be taken hostage in future negotiations.”
Tobias Cremer, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson for the SPD in the European Parliament:
“The UK–EU Defence Pact marks an important new chapter for Europe’s security. Five years after Brexit, both sides are ready to take concrete steps to enhance the safety and prosperity of their citizens. European security does not end at the English Channel, and we must act accordingly.
The agreement provides for regular consultations between the EU High Representative and the British Foreign and Defence Ministers, as well as closer cooperation in supporting Ukraine, cybersecurity, and the protection of critical infrastructure. In addition, the pact enables future UK participation in the SAFE instrument. This will facilitate joint procurement of defence equipment, reduce costs, and improve the interoperability of armed forces. Crucially, the pact is embedded within a broader reset of EU–UK relations. Security requires not only military strength, but also competitiveness, social cohesion, investment in research, and people-to-people exchange. In light of current challenges, this reset reflects pragmatism and determination. It is a win for Europe, no matter which side of the Channel you live on.”
Members of the European Parliament’s Committees on International Trade and Foreign Affairs will meet for a joint session on the EU–UK summit on Tuesday, 20 May, at 4 p.m., with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič also attending.
e-translated by ChatGPT, prompted by Insight EU
Disclaimer: This English translation is provided for informational purposes only. In the event of any discrepancies or legal interpretations, the original German version shall prevail and is the only legally binding text.
Renew Europe welcomes EU-UK reset as a step toward strategic re-alignment in a new geopolitical era
Renew Europe welcomes today’s landmark EU-UK summit in London and the announcement of the beginning of a reset in relations – a long-overdue and necessary first step to rebuild trust and forge a more strategic and cooperative partnership with the United Kingdom. In a world marked by increasing geopolitical tension, particularly in light of Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine, today’s agreement signals a pragmatic shift towards European unity, resilience, and alignment.
The Defence and Security Partnership at the heart of this reset is especially significant. It reflects the reality that Europe’s security cannot be addressed in isolation, and that the UK remains a vital partner in the broader effort to defend democratic values and international law.
Valérie Hayer, President of Renew Europe, said:
“This is a turning point for EU–UK relations; Britain is back as a reliable European partner. Today’s agreement reflects a shared recognition that our futures are interconnected – strategically, economically, and politically. The Defence and Security Partnership is more than symbolism; it is a clear step toward convergence between the EU and UK in a dangerous world.
To borrow Churchill’s words, today must mark the end of the beginning of a reset – not the beginning of the end. We have a real opportunity to build a stronger, more prosperous future together.”
In addition to defence and broader cooperation, Renew Europe also underlines the importance of the progress made in key areas such as food safety (SPS), fisheries, and the need for more progress on digital innovation, particularly artificial intelligence.
We warmly welcomes the EU and UK’s commitment to strengthening youth mobility, a key priority long championed by our political group. The political will expressed in the joint statement marks a significant positive step forward.
We now call for swift concrete results to deliver new opportunities for young people in professional mobility, education, au pair exchanges, and volunteering. All options within the Erasmus+ framework must be thoroughly explored.
Our ambition remains steadfast: to create meaningful, accessible opportunities that empower the next generation of Europeans and Britons to build bridges across borders.
The involvement of the European Parliament in future summits will be essential to ensure democratic accountability and ambition.
Sandro Gozi, Chair of the European Parliament’s Delegation to the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, said:
“The EU–UK relationship is back on track! While celebrating what has been achieved today, Renew Europe calls for greater ambition – not only in defence and fisheries, but also on youth mobility, digital cooperation, artificial intelligence, and research. Young people must not continue to be the victims of Brexit. There is a strong desire from Parliamentarians on both sides of the Channel to improve cooperation; we must seize this opportunity. As the Beatles once sang, it’s time to come together – and this reset can become the foundation for a more ambitious, forward-looking relationship.”
Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann, Chair of the European Parliament’s Security and Defence Committee, said:
“I explicitly welcome today’s agreement. It sends a clear signal – to Moscow and other authoritarian regimes alike: Europe stands united. Security is not a bargaining chip; it is a shared responsibility. The fact that the United Kingdom and the European Union are moving closer again five years after Brexit is an encouraging sign. The UK remains an integral part of Europe, especially when it comes to security, defence, and the protection of our shared values. This agreement is a step in the right direction – towards greater cooperation, more stability, and a strong European alliance that reaches beyond institutional boundaries.”
Renew Europe urges both sides to seize this momentum and build a broad, long-term partnership that reflects our shared interests and common values. In an era where global challenges demand unity, the EU and UK must lead together.
Source – Renew Europe
ECR Group: Ambitious EU-UK agenda must now turn hopes into reality
The Joint Defence and Security Partnership agreed between the European Union and the United Kingdom at today’s bilateral summit in London “demonstrates what’s possible when we look beyond the past and embrace a future focused on close cooperation and delivery”, Francesco Torselli MEP said today.
Mr Torselli, the ECR Group’s lead on the EU-UK Parliamentary Partnership Assembly, welcomed the accord as a sign of cross-Channel determination to confront the growing list of common challenges but also opportunities.
Mr Torselli said:
“We haven’t changed our position regretting the UK’s departure from the EU, but we understand the political constraints that successive governments in London have faced. We’ve always insisted that there’s plenty of space to expand and intensify cooperation if the political will is there. The bilateral relationship clearly needs a solid structure that takes us beyond ad hoc measures, and that’s what this accord provides. The UK’s military, its intelligence services and its global reach are vital assets to strengthen our common European security in the light of the threats we face, especially because of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.”
Mr Torselli further commented on decisions taken to “beef up the substance of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement” (TCA).
“The ECR welcomes steps to elaborate the Trade and Cooperation Agreement. Through a renewed spirit of constructive engagement, I am confident we can better deliver together for our citizens in various policy areas. Notably, the fight against illegal migration is one of many areas where cooperation is not only beneficial but essential – just as much for the UK as for the EU. A new youth mobility scheme combined with efforts to encourage the UK to re-join Erasmus+ will help to address some of the opportunities that Brexit curtailed, and we are fully supportive.”
Source – ECR Group (by email)
EU-UK Summit paves the way for a stronger economic partnership – BusinessEurope
The outcome of the EU-UK Summit, as set out in the Common Understanding on a renewed agenda, is a positive one for European business. However, there is still significant work to be done.
BusinessEurope Director General Markus J. Beyrer said:
“Today’s announcement has created the momentum to advance our vital economic partnership, but we now need to see real progress on making it easier to trade in goods and services. Agreements on mutual recognition in areas such as veterinary standards and conformity assessment for products could significantly cut red tape for businesses on both sides, as could coordination on matters such as electricity trading and linking the emissions’ trading schemes.
With both EU and UK businesses facing labour shortages, we should also strive to facilitate the short-term mobility of professionals. This is particularly true for the services sector, which accounts for 48% of our total bilateral trade.
We look forward to concrete outcomes on these issues as discussions continue.”
Source – BusinessEurope (via email)