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UK and EU Finalize Draft for Post-Brexit Strategic Partnership

The draft agreement emphasizes shared commitments to free trade, Ukraine's sovereignty, and multilateralism, with formal approval expected at the May 19 summit in London.

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British and EU flags hang on the day of the meeting of British Prime Minister Keir Starmer with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in Brussels, Belgium October 2, 2024. REUTERS/Yves Herman
President Donald Trump along with  Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, left, and Commerce Secretary nominee Howard Lutnick have imposed sweeping tariffs on all US imports (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Overview

  • A leaked draft outlines a UK-EU 'geopolitical preamble' committing to free and open trade, support for Ukraine, and multilateral cooperation.
  • The agreement signals a reset in UK-EU relations, marking the most significant political declaration since Brexit.
  • The UK government asserts it will not have to choose between deepening ties with the EU and pursuing a separate trade deal with the US.
  • Parallel negotiations with the US over tariff carve-outs continue, though no agreement is guaranteed before the May 19 summit.
  • Sectoral discussions on defense, security, fishing, and energy are ongoing as part of broader efforts to rebuild UK-EU cooperation.