British PM Starmer and Irish Premier Harris Aim to Reset Relations

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met Irish Premier Simon Harris in Dublin to reset relations post-Brexit. This marks the first visit by a British leader to Ireland in five years. They discussed deepening ties in economic and security matters, aiming for annual summits to solidify their relationship.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer met with his Irish counterpart on Saturday in a bid to reset relations between the two countries, a move necessitated by years of post-Brexit tensions.

This visit, the first by a British leader to Ireland in five years, underscores a mutual desire to deepen economic and security ties. Harris was notably the first international leader Starmer hosted following his Labour Party's landmark election win on July 4.

"Today is really significant as we've expressed our ambition to reset the relationship," Starmer stated post-meeting with Harris at Farmleigh House. The leaders have plans for a summit by March and annual summits thereafter. Starmer highlighted the need for closer ties with the EU on security and trade to reduce friction, aspects he feels are crucial for growth. A business roundtable in Dublin accentuated the importance of the economic relationship, valued at 120 billion euros, which supports thousands of jobs across both nations. The day concluded with a symbolic appearance at a soccer match between Ireland and England in Dublin, where the leaders exchanged jerseys, signaling friendly competition and renewed bilateral cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)