Archive · 19 May 2025
U.K. and EU Forge New Partnership Post-Brexit
The U.K. and the EU are starting a new chapter in their relationship after Brexit, focusing on working together.
They made deals to help each other's businesses, like letting the U.K. be part of a big EU fund for defense.
The U.K. will have access to EU fishing waters, and the EU will have access to the U.K. markets.
They also talked about working together to stop illegal activities, like people smuggling.
Both sides are hoping this will benefit everyone.
U.K. and EU leaders met for first formal summit since Brexit.
Deals include U.K. access to EU fishing waters and greater access to EU markets.
Agreement to link carbon markets to avoid taxes in certain sectors.
U.K. to participate in the EU’s €150 billion loan facility for defense.
Cooperation on transnational crimes including people-smuggling and migration.
- Who
- U.K. and EU leaders
- What
- Agreements on trade, defense, and mobility finalized.
- When
- May 19, 2025
- Where
- London (U.K.)
- Why
- To strengthen cooperation, boost economies, and address shared challenges.
Opposition (Critics)
Government (Supporters)
Deal Terms
Opposition (Critics)
Accusations of the government backsliding and making concessions.
Government (Supporters)
The deal gives the U.K. the greatest level of access to EU markets outside of the EU and EFTA while adhering to the U.K.'s policy goals.
- SAFE Fund
- €150 billion
- U.K. - EU Summit Date
- May 19, 2025
Sources
'Good for jobs, bills and borders': UK and EU agree on landmark security and defence pact
North Macedonia, U.K. agree on boosting ties: PM
EU and U.K. reach tentative agreement ahead of summit, say EU officials
Defence, trade and geopolitics on the cards at U.K.’s ‘reset’ summit with EU