British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is coming to Brussels on Wednesday to establish a "more pragmatic and mature relationship" with the European Union after years of Brexit-related tensions, he announced on Tuesday.
This marks Starmer's first visit to Brussels since taking office in July after 14 years of Conservative governments. The Labour Party leader is travelling to the Belgian capital on Wednesday to meet with the heads of the EU's main institutions, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
"The United Kingdom is undeniably stronger when working closely with its closest international partners. This has never been more important, with war, conflicts and insecurity at Europe's doorstep," he emphasised in a statement.
"We can only tackle these challenges collectively, which is why I am determined to put the Brexit years behind us and build a more pragmatic and mature relationship with the European Union," he continued. "Better cooperation with the EU will bring the benefits the British people deserve: securing our borders, ensuring our safety and boosting economic growth."
The Labour leader voted for the UK to remain in the EU during the 2016 referendum, which ultimately led to Brexit and the UK's departure from the bloc in 2020.
While he has expressed a desire to "reset" relations with the EU several times, he has made it clear that this does not mean reversing Brexit. He rules out rejoining the single market, the customs union or restoring free movement.
Starmer aims to negotiate a new security pact with the EU, enhance cooperation in combating irregular immigration, and resolve trade frictions with the bloc.
