Merz and Starmer sign friendship agreement

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed a far-reaching friendship treaty in London . The goal is closer cooperation in key policy areas such as defense, trade, migration, and technology. Merz, who traveled to the British capital for his inaugural visit, spoke of a "historic day for German-British relations." He emphasized: "It is long overdue that we conclude such a treaty with each other."

Against the backdrop of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine , the treaty particularly emphasizes cooperation in the field of defense. The "close allies emphasize their deep commitment to mutual defense" and pledge that they will assist each other "in the event of an armed attack against the other party" – "including by military means." The treaty states that "there is no strategic threat to one party that is not also a strategic threat to the other."

In doing so, both countries explicitly underline an obligation that already exists as part of their NATO membership. According to Article 5 of the North Atlantic Treaty, all NATO states—including Germany and Great Britain—are obligated to provide mutual assistance in the event of an attack.

Until now, Germany has relied primarily on the United States for defense. Since Donald Trump returned to the White House as president, however, Germany has been discussing closer cooperation with the two European nuclear powers, Great Britain and France , to ensure its own defense.

The agreement also emphasizes deeper cooperation in deterrence and defense along NATO's northern and eastern flanks. The German and British defense industries are to be more closely networked. In May, both countries announced their intention to work together on missiles with a range of up to 2,000 kilometers.

Common strategy against irregular migration

Another focus is migration policy—a key concern of both heads of government. The United Kingdom hopes for German support in the fight against irregular migration across the English Channel. According to information from London, the German government is planning a legislative amendment to combat smuggling networks more effectively.

The agreement is also intended to provide economic impetus. The German-British trade in goods, which has declined sharply since Brexit, is to be revitalized and cooperation between companies, industry, and trade is to be intensified. The goal is to stabilize supply chains and develop new economic synergies.

In addition, the agreement provides for closer cooperation in the fields of science, technology, and education. A particular focus is on artificial intelligence and the expansion of student exchanges, which had been severely curtailed after Brexit.

Last but not least, transport connections are also to be strengthened. The railway company Eurostar is planning a direct connection between Germany and Great Britain for the first time. This is to be implemented in the coming years and will also facilitate the physical rapprochement between the two countries.

pgr/AR (afp, dpa, rtr)