A new chapter in relations between London and Brussels? A draft joint political declaration is already on the table
Although the United Kingdom left the European Union in 2020, five years later there is increasingly loud talk of political and economic rapprochement between the two sides. The preliminary version of a joint declaration on values, proposed by London, is a signal of a change of course and a sign of a new, strategic partnership.
According to the news agency Reuters, the draft declaration is already in the hands of the EU member states. It is due to be finalised at a summit in London scheduled for 19 May 2025.
What does the declaration on shared values contain?
The document includes key points that unite the United Kingdom and the Union:
- clear support for the independence and sovereignty of Ukraine,
- joint commitments to free and open trade,
- a declaration of cooperation on economic stability,
- confirmation of commitment to the Paris climate agreement,
- strengthening the role of multilateralism and the international order.
Although the text does not mention Donald Trump by name, many of its provisions are read as opposition to the nationalist economic policy of the USA, based on tariff barriers and limiting global cooperation.
A change of tone in UK foreign policy
Prime Minister Keir Starmer had already declared his wish to deepen cooperation with the EU, particularly in the context of:
- a common defence policy,
- the development of military technologies,
- strengthening the European defence industry.
The February dinner in Brussels, at which Starmer sat at the table with the leaders of the 27 EU states, was a symbolic return of the United Kingdom to European political dialogue - for the first time since Brexit.
What does this mean for business owners?
Political rapprochement may have a real impact on:
- easier access to the EU market,
- new trade agreements and customs simplifications,
- a more stable regulatory environment for companies operating across borders,
- increased investor confidence in the British and European markets.
We are following the changes - we advise safely on both sides of the English Channel
At Global Tax Partners, we:
- serve clients doing business in the United Kingdom and the EU,
- advise on international trade, exports, imports and company registration,
- help with interpreting customs and tax regulations and export documentation.
📞 Contact us - want to operate internationally? With us, you will do it safely and legally.
Have a question about this?
The first consultation is free - let us talk about your situation.
