The United Kingdom and the European Union took a major step toward resetting their post-Brexit relationship during the first UK-EU summit held in London on 19 May 2025. Leaders from both sides agreed on a series of landmark deals covering trade, security, defence, migration, and fisheries, marking a new chapter of cooperation after years of complex negotiations and tensions.
A New Strategic Partnership Built on Shared Commitments
At the summit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen jointly announced a new Strategic Partnership that builds on the foundations of the Withdrawal Agreement—including the Windsor Framework—and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA). Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the full, timely, and faithful implementation of these agreements.
This renewed agenda aims to meet the evolving needs of citizens on both sides by strengthening economies, protecting the environment, and enhancing internal security and judicial cooperation.
Key Documents Signed
Three pivotal documents emerged from the summit:
- A Joint Statement outlining the strategic partnership and shared priorities.
- A Security and Defence Partnership to deepen military and crisis cooperation.
- A Common Understanding on cooperation in security, defence, development, and migration.
Trade Cooperation: Simplifying Borders and Boosting Economy
Removing Barriers to Trade
One of the most significant outcomes was the agreement to remove routine sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) checks on animal and plant products indefinitely. This move will reduce bureaucratic hurdles and delays for exporters and importers, benefiting farmers, food producers, and fishermen alike.
- UK goods exports to the EU increased by £0.2 billion (1.6%) in March 2025.
- The UK’s trade in goods deficit narrowed by £4.3 billion to £55.2 billion in the first quarter of 2025.
- Imports from the EU rose by £0.2 billion (0.9%) in March 2025.
- The EU remains the UK’s largest trading partner, accounting for 41% of UK exports and over half of imports in 2024.
The deal also includes commitments to open the EU electricity market to the UK, enhancing energy security and potentially lowering consumer costs.
Security and Defence: A Renewed Partnership
Enhancing Military Cooperation
The UK-EU Security and Defence Partnership formalizes collaboration in critical areas:
- Support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflict.
- Military mobility and joint procurement through a €150 billion European loan facility.
- Cybersecurity, countering hybrid threats, and resilience of critical infrastructure.
- Peacekeeping and crisis management operations.
This partnership allows UK companies to compete for contracts within the EU’s Security Action for Europe (SAFE) program, fostering closer defence industry ties and strategic alignment.
Fisheries Agreement: Stability for Coastal Communities
Extending Reciprocal Access
Fishing rights, a historically contentious issue, were addressed with a deal extending reciprocal access to UK and EU waters until 30 June 2038—12 years beyond the previous deadline.
- The UK government pledged £360 million to support the fishing sector through fleet modernization, workforce training, seafood export promotion, and tourism development.
- The agreement provides long-term certainty for fishermen and coastal communities on both sides of the Channel.
Migration, Mobility, and Education: Renewing People-to-People Links
Youth Mobility and Erasmus+
Both parties agreed to develop a youth mobility scheme allowing young people under 30 to travel and work between the UK and EU, though full freedom of movement will not return.
The UK will rejoin the Erasmus+ program, restoring opportunities for student and academic exchanges, fostering friendships and cultural understanding across Europe.
Enhanced cooperation on combating illegal migration and improving return processes was also agreed upon, reflecting shared priorities on border security.
Political Reactions and Public Sentiment
UK Government Perspective
Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the summit as “historic,” emphasizing the deal’s benefits for jobs, businesses, and consumers. He framed the agreement as a pragmatic step forward, moving past divisive Brexit debates and positioning Britain as “back on the world stage.”
European Commission Viewpoint
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the agreement as “turning a page” and opening a “new chapter” in the unique UK-EU relationship, emphasizing shared democratic values and a rules-based international order.
Opposition and Populist Criticism
Hardline Brexit voices, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage, condemned the deal as a “surrender” that undermines UK sovereignty, particularly criticizing the extended fishing rights and regulatory alignment.
Badenoch warned:
- “We’re becoming a rule-taker from Brussels once again,” reflecting fears of eroding Brexit gains.
Public Opinion
Polling indicates a majority of Britons regret Brexit and favor closer ties with the EU, though political divisions remain sharp.
Broader Context and Global Implications
The reset deal emerges amid global geopolitical tensions, energy security challenges, and economic uncertainty. It reflects mutual recognition of interdependence between the UK and EU:
- Both sides commit to free, sustainable, fair, and open trade.
- Defence cooperation strengthens collective security, notably in support of Ukraine.
- Energy market integration aims to bolster resilience amid volatile global prices.
Summary and Outlook
The 2025 UK-EU summit and resulting deals represent a pragmatic reset in post-Brexit relations. By addressing trade barriers, defence cooperation, migration, and fisheries, both sides have laid the groundwork for a more stable and cooperative future. While challenges remain, the agreements mark a significant step toward rebuilding trust and partnership between the UK and its largest trading partner.
