UK's Starmer Calls for Closer EU Defence Ties

UK's Starmer Calls for Closer EU Defence Ties

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has urged the UK to strengthen its defence ties with the European Union (EU), emphasizing the need for closer collaboration on military spending, capability, and cooperation. Speaking during a visit to China, Starmer expressed openness to exploring schemes like the SAFE initiative, which aims to bolster EU member states' armaments through loans at reduced rates.

Despite failed negotiations last year over the UK's entry fee into the 150-billion-euro (US$174 billion) SAFE scheme, Starmer remains committed to finding ways for the UK to work more closely with the EU on defence matters. His comments follow London's recent strategic partnership agreement with Brussels, which includes plans to deepen defence cooperation.

Starmer also highlighted ongoing negotiations for a youth mobility program that would include capped visa numbers and authorised stay lengths. The UK has already agreed to rejoin the Erasmus student exchange programme starting in 2027.

His remarks underscored the UK's post-Brexit efforts to rebuild relationships with the EU, particularly in areas like trade and defence cooperation. The comments come as the EU scrambles to boost its military capabilities following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.