Britain and Germany Forge New Ambitious Treaty

Britain and Germany's leaders have agreed to work on an ambitious treaty covering defence, trade, and other areas to reset British-EU relations. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's visit to Germany and France aims to foster improved ties and boost the UK’s economic growth. The treaty seeks deeper collaboration in science, technology, business, and culture.

Britain and Germany's leaders agreed in Berlin on Wednesday to work on an ambitious treaty covering issues from defence to trade as part of a reset of British relations with the European Union. Prime Minister Keir Starmer's trip to Germany and France aims to help Britain move beyond the previous Conservative government's fractious relations with European allies, focusing on economic growth.

Starmer described the cooperation treaty as a 'once-in-a-generation chance to deliver for working people in Britain and in Germany,' promising deeper collaboration in science, technology, business, and culture while increasing trade. 'Growth is our number one mission,' Starmer stated, emphasizing the importance of building relationships with European partners.

Addressing a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Starmer clarified that a reset would not mean reversing Britain's 2020 exit from the EU or re-entering the bloc's single market or customs union. Scholz expressed Germany's willingness to cooperate, stating that the UK remains essential in solving Europe's major issues. Both nations hope to sign the cooperation treaty by early next year.

(With inputs from agencies.)