Monday, May 19, 2025

U.K. and EU Open ‘New Chapter’ with Sweeping Post-Brexit Deal


U.K. and EU Open ‘New Chapter’ with Sweeping Post-Brexit Deal
Emmitt Barry


The United Kingdom and European Union have announced a major reset in relations, signing a broad agreement that covers trade, defense, fishing rights, youth mobility, and regulatory cooperation. “We’re turning a page,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “We’re opening a new chapter.”

This marks the first formal U.K.-EU summit since Brexit and reflects a sharp pivot in tone under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s pro-EU Labour government. Starmer called the deal a “win-win,” following trade pacts with the U.S. and India in recent weeks. British officials say the agreement could boost the U.K. economy by $12 billion by 2040.

Brussels sees the renewed cooperation as a necessary “normalisation” with a key defense ally amid global instability. “Better ties with Britain is a no-brainer,” said one EU diplomat, pointing to shared interests in security, energy, and migration. The deal also reflects a shift away from the tense, distrustful atmosphere that followed Brexit, particularly during past Conservative-led governments.

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