On Friday, the European Union extended its congratulations to Keir Starmer on Labour’s election triumph in Britain, with European Council President Charles Michel describing it as a “historic” moment.
“I look forward to collaborating with you and your administration in this new phase for the UK,” Michel remarked on X, formerly known as Twitter.
Highlighting the crucial partnership between the EU and Britain across various mutual interests for citizens, Michel anticipated discussions with Starmer at an upcoming European Political Community summit scheduled in Britain on July 18. Issues on the agenda will encompass stability, security, energy, and migration.
Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, also conveyed her congratulations to Starmer on X, emphasizing the importance of continued close collaboration as allies and partners.
Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas, slated to become the EU’s next foreign policy chief, echoed these sentiments and underscored “the UK’s commitment to our shared security.”
Following confirmation from exit polls and ballot counts in Britain’s general election, Labour’s substantial lead positions Starmer as the incoming prime minister, marking a shift towards the left compared to several EU counterparts moving rightwards.
Starmer has pledged to strengthen ties with the EU while maintaining the Brexit decision. Analysts anticipate Brussels’ positive reception to his leadership, anticipating a more pragmatic and cooperative approach in contrast to the often turbulent relations under his Conservative predecessors.
An EU official, speaking anonymously to AFP, expressed optimism about London’s potential “return to internationalist policies,” describing it as a refreshing prospect.
