UK and EU plan to reshape ties at first summit since Brexit

The United Kingdom and the European Union held their first bilateral summit in London on May 19, 2025, with the aim of fostering closer ties post-Brexit. This meeting brought together UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and top EU officials, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, to negotiate a new agreement that hopes to alleviate economic challenges stemming from the Brexit transition. Over the past years, the UK economy has struggled due to decreased trade with the EU, increased costs, and regulatory difficulties encountered after the departure from the bloc in 2020. In anticipation of this summit, discussions highlighted key topics including defence deals, fishing rights, and improved economic relations. Starmer, who has been a vocal advocate for resetting relations with the EU, emphasized the necessity of progress in the wake of various tensions following the Brexit referendum held on June 23, 2016. The Labour government’s manifesto commitment to enhance trade relations aims to counteract declining public support amid the rising influence of Eurosceptic parties like the Reform Party. Among the key agreements expected from the summit are measures that could potentially diminish the impact of the Irish Sea border—an arrangement that arose from the Brexit deal to keep the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland open. Policies that align UK regulations closer to EU standards would ease checks and controls on goods traveling across this border, facilitating smoother trade. However, various disputes, particularly concerning fishing rights, remain contentious. While the Labour government is pushing towards new agreements, the complexities of previous arrangements continue to present challenges. Furthermore, the ongoing negotiations indicate a critical step towards reestablishing UK-EU ties, with potential impacts on the economy, security cooperation, and broader foreign policy priorities. As this summit unfolds, the outcomes could significantly shape the future of UK-EU relations.