UK, Germany Sign Historic Treaty to Boost Defense, Migration, and Economic Ties

LONDON – The United Kingdom and Germany signed a landmark “Friendship and Cooperation Treaty” on Thursday in London, marking the most significant agreement between the two nations since 1945. The treaty, aimed at enhancing collaboration in defense, foreign policy, economic cooperation, and migration, was signed by UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.

Hailing it as a “historic day,” Chancellor Merz emphasized the long-overdue nature of the agreement, especially after Brexit. “We want to work more closely together… in defense, foreign policy, economic policy, and domestic policy,” he said. A notable feature of the treaty includes expanded educational exchange opportunities, enabling easier mobility for students and schoolchildren between the two countries.

Prime Minister Starmer welcomed the treaty as a major step forward for Britain’s global partnerships. He praised Germany’s commitment to pass new legislation targeting the supply of small boats used by people-smuggling networks. “We will smash the people-smuggling gangs and secure our borders,” he stated, highlighting the agreement’s alignment with UK priorities on illegal migration and border security.