Brussels – In response to the shared threat to the continent's security, alongside trade wars and climate change, London and Brussels are now coming closer than they have in a long time. Following increasing discussions between British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa, the European Parliament and Westminster are now stepping up the dialogue and cooperation. On March 18, the EU-UK Assembly for Parliamentary Partnership (PPA) concluded its meeting. This forum, consisting of delegations from both parliaments, meets periodically to discuss the development and implementation of the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, which has guided political and commercial relations since 2021.
The two delegations, who met for the first time since last summer's parliamentary elections in the EU and the United Kingdom, expressed their readiness to deepen constructive relations based on common values and mutual trust, particularly concerning a range of mutually important issues. The legislators recognized and welcomed the efforts of both governments to develop ties in a time of significant geopolitical challenges, adopting a series of recommendations noting where they are successfully working together and emphasizing areas that need more effort.
Several areas of cooperation were discussed during the assembly. Security and defense were central themes, including combating disinformation in regions like the Western Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine. The PPA also considered ways to offer new opportunities to the youth, further collaborate on achieving energy autonomy—such as joint renewable energy programs in the North Sea—and increase support for international development, which has become essential following the suspension of American aid.
Future meetings will tackle immigration, sanctions, and mobility, while informal discussions were held on artificial intelligence, financial services regulation, and climate change. The meeting resulted in recommendations that delegations will present to their respective governments ahead of the UK-EU Summit scheduled for May 19, 2025. The heads of delegation expressed great satisfaction and gratitude for the progress made, emphasizing the atmosphere of easing tensions and understanding that characterized the forum.
Sandro Gozi, a French MP and co-chair for the EU, remarked, “It was very constructive. The atmosphere has certainly improved; we must leverage the potential of existing treaties and build foundations for common trust, which is essential to deepen and develop our partnership in new areas.”
British delegation leader Marsha de Cordova echoed these sentiments, stating, “It is like turning the page on a more positive and robust dialogue between our two nations. There is strong consensus on support for President Zelensky, and we acknowledged some challenges regarding energy security and climate, among other issues.” De Cordova concluded her comments with a quip directed at Gozi, referring to him as “my new centrist friend.”
Moving beyond previous hesitations following Brexit, the UK has found a new assertiveness in international diplomacy under Keir Starmer's leadership. Previously characterized as uncertain and lost, the UK has now positioned itself as a key player on the global stage. Starmer's efforts to reset relations with the European Union have proven significant, as evidenced by his ongoing presence in European discussions and meetings with key continental leaders.
Besides building a rapport with Europe, Starmer is also focused on securing a solid relationship with President Donald Trump. In the week preceding March 19, 2025, Starmer met with Trump at the White House, a meeting that was not an accident but rather a well-prepared engagement stemming from months of dialogue in Downing Street, recognizing Washington's influence on global issues despite Trump's sometimes controversial stances.
Starmer has raised Britain's profile, particularly through his proactive support for Ukraine. While Trump has been seen to reduce American support for Kyiv, Starmer chose to escalate assistance. Last week, he gathered eighteen international leaders—including those from Europe, Canada, and Turkey—to outline a comprehensive plan to support Ukraine. Additionally, Starmer will host a virtual summit for the “coalition of the willing” on March 22, aimed at ensuring Ukrainian security despite potential shortcomings in U.S. commitment.
Evie Aspinall, director of the British Foreign Policy Group, commented on Starmer’s natural transition into the international arena, saying, “In many ways, I am surprised by how naturally Starmer has stepped into this role, particularly considering he doesn't have much foreign policy experience. But he is a very astute lawyer, a highly intelligent man, and has proven himself on the global stage, even when handling complex characters.”
Despite his newfound stature on the world stage, Starmer’s leadership at home remains more ambiguous. His approach has been labeled as lacking charisma and a clear political vision, with concerns raised about his methodical and bureaucratic style. Even his chief of staff, Morgan McSweeney, reportedly stated that Starmer is “more of a human resources manager than a leader.” Paradoxically, this methodical approach can be beneficial in delicate international negotiations.
While his caution is criticized domestically, it has served him well globally, allowing him to maintain balance and pragmatism in critical situations. According to The Economist, the crisis has unveiled an unexpected side of Starmer, who has leveraged the perceived coldness and pragmatism that often attract criticism at home. Many commentators emphasize Starmer's ability to fortify the UK's international role through his mediating skills, with significant contributions noted by The Independent, highlighting his strategy to restore London's prominence in global politics.
While past remarks by former U.S. Secretary of State Dean Acheson haunt British leaders—“Britain has lost an empire but has not yet found a role”—the UK's role now appears clearer. London no longer wishes to remain a marginal player; it intends to become a hub in the new geopolitical direction—a bridge between Europe and the U.S., a guarantor of stability in Ukraine, and a leader in the global security dialogue.
However, uncertainties linger. Starmer’s strategy is showing promise, but numerous risks are present. If the situation in Ukraine deteriorates or Trump decreases U.S. involvement further, Starmer will face enormous challenges. The escalating defense spending to 2.5 percent of GDP by 2027 has already sparked controversy, necessitating cuts to foreign aid and leading to the resignation of Minister Anneliese Dodds. In essence, while foreign policy shines, the pressing everyday issues for citizens remain unresolved.
“Every pound spent on NLAW anti-tank missiles is a pound that won't go to the National Health Service,” commented The Economist, reminding that governments are ultimately judged by their domestic responsibilities, not just their international engagements. As the stakes continue to rise, Starmer seems poised to take bold steps forward, but the path ahead remains fraught with complexity.
