The UK and the EU member states are looking at an annual summit to take stock of their bilateral relationship. It is indicated that they are also hoping to conduct negotiations on a security pact when the leaders gather for a summit in London (Britain) on 19 May, according to media reports.
The European Union and the UK have been attempting to streamline their relations since Brexit, when UK decided to leave the EU. However, since then the two have been engaging to cultivate deeper ties both economic and diplomatic.
“We agreed that a stable foundation for our relationship is vital, and, in this context, we reaffirmed our commitment to the full, timely and faithful implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, including the Windsor Framework, and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement,” according to the draft, referring to texts related to Brexit.
“We agreed to hold annual UK-EU summits to take stock of the bilateral relationship,” said the text, dated May 6 and shared with EU delegations.
The draft outlines the two sides’ views on global priorities, including continued support for Ukraine and an agreement to remain ready to exert pressure on Russia.
“We also recognised the need to do more to secure our respective external borders, while remaining committed to ensuring international protection for those who need it,” the draft further added.
The draft noted that “we recognised the importance of trans-atlantic cooperation in addressing global challenges, fostering economic growth, and ensuring peace and security.”
The EU and UK also said they recognised the shared challenge of migration and that there is a need to address it with third countries.
The UK is looking for a partnership.
UK will also be present at an EU discussion in Poland on 7th May. At the discussion, the UK Secretary of Foreign Affairs, David Lammy will underline how closer cooperation on security and defence is in the interests of both the UK and the EU and will discuss uniting across the continent to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Lammy, who was the first Foreign Secretary since Brexit to attend a formal meeting of EU foreign ministers in October last year, has been laying the foundations for stronger ties with Europe since taking office.
Following leader-level discussions in London between the Prime Minister of the UK Keir Starmer and the President of the European Union Commission Ursula von der Leyen on 24 April, he will continue to make the case for a long-term UK-EU strategic partnership that will support economic growth, protect citizens, and support European collective security and defence.
The meeting comes days ahead of the UK-EU Summit (19 May), which will cover a range of UK-EU issues and look to foster a stable, positive, and forward-looking relationship.
“We are working hand-in-hand with our European allies to build a safer, more secure, and more prosperous Europe. Together, we will stand firm against aggression, defend our shared values, and deliver lasting peace,” he said.
“In the face of Russian aggression, NATO’s Eastern Flank has never been more important. We are resolute in defending Europe’s security.” Lammy added.
