Five years after the UK’s official departure from the European Union, Britain and the EU have signed a major new agreement to reshape their relationship—this time with cooperation, not separation, at its core. The landmark deal, revealed after intense late-night negotiations and a summit in London, signals a new chapter focused on shared security, streamlined trade, and opportunities for young people.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer called it “a strategic partnership fit for our times,” saying it would lower energy bills, improve border protection, and boost job creation. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described it as a “turning point,” especially important during a time of rising global tension.
What’s in the Deal?
The agreement covers several key areas:
1. Defence and Security:
A formal UK-EU security pact has been established for the first time since Brexit. Under this deal, the two sides will meet every six months to coordinate on foreign policy, sanctions, and military planning. The UK will also join the EU’s military mobility program (PESCO), which makes it easier to move troops and equipment across Europe. This could lead to UK firms gaining access to the EU’s £150 billion “Safe” defence fund. While full participation hasn’t been finalized, the door is now open.
2. Trade and Border Checks:
One of the biggest practical wins is the easing of border checks. The UK and EU have agreed to dramatically reduce inspections on food and plant products. This means raw meat products like burgers and sausages—banned from EU shelves since Brexit—can once again be exported. UK officials estimate the changes will boost the British economy by nearly £9 billion by 2040.
3. Fishing Rights:
In exchange for fewer trade barriers, the UK has extended current EU fishing access in its waters until 2038. This has upset some Conservative politicians, who view it as a retreat from hard-won Brexit gains. But to support coastal communities, the UK government announced a £360 million “Fishing and Coastal Growth Fund” to modernize local industries.
4. Youth Mobility and Education:
While full freedom of movement hasn’t returned, both sides have committed to a new “youth experience scheme.” If finalized, it could allow 18- to 30-year-olds to live, work, and travel across the UK and EU for limited periods—similar to existing agreements with Australia and New Zealand. There’s also hope that the UK may rejoin the Erasmus+ student exchange program.
5. Travel and e-Gates:
UK citizens will soon be able to use automated passport e-gates in more European airports. This reverses one of the more annoying post-Brexit travel changes. A simplified system for pet passports is also expected, ending the need for repeat vet visits before travel.
Moving Beyond Brexit
The agreement doesn’t mean a full return to the EU or the single market. Starmer made clear his Labour government has no plans to rejoin major EU institutions. But the deal reflects his push to rebuild trust and improve cooperation after years of Brexit-fueled division.
The signing was accompanied by two additional documents: a joint declaration of solidarity and a “Common Understanding” covering trade, fishing, and youth programs. European Council President Antonio Costa and foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas also attended, signaling the significance of the moment.
Though not everyone is pleased—especially Brexit hardliners—the overall message is clear: the UK and EU are stronger when they work together. As geopolitical tensions grow and economies struggle, this agreement could mark the beginning of a more pragmatic and productive partnership.