Five years after Brexit, the United Kingdom and the European Union have reached a historical agreement that redefines its relationship and Open a new stage based on practical cooperation. The pact, announced after the summit held in Brussels on Monday, contemplates significant advances in Areas such as Defense, Security, Fisheries, Youth Mobility and Commerce. However, it separates sensitive issues such as Gibraltar, from the agreement.
Held In the emblematic Lancaster House of London, The meeting was attended by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, with the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen; the president of the European Council, António Costa; and the high representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas. Despite the usual rigidity of these meetings, The atmosphere was reconciliation. “We are looking forward, not back,” said Costa. Starmer, on the other hand, proclaimed the event as “the recovery of the great tradition of a nation that looks at the world in front.” The agreement represents a change of tone with respect to previous years, marked by mutual distrust.
For the first time from its output of the block, London and Brussels undertake to collaborate closely in defense and security. The United Kingdom may Participate in projects financed by the European Defense Fund (And being able to access a European fund of 150,000 million euros for security projects), while both parties They will reinforce cooperation against hybrid threats, misinformation and organized crime. In addition, cooperation in the Fight against irregular migrationwith a particular approach to the protection of borders.
Another of the key points is the Extension of reciprocal access to fishing waters until 2038. This measure seeks to guarantee Stability to both British and European fleets and promoting marine sustainabilitya constant friction point from the British output of the EU.
One of the most symbolic gestures of the agreement is the creation of a specific program for young people that will facilitate its mobility between the United Kingdom and the EU. The so -called ‘Youth experience scheme ‘ It will allow British and European citizens to work, study and acquire professional experience abroad during prolonged stays, and with more flexible migratory conditions.
The initiative Includes special visas and mutual recognition of academic and professional qualificationswith the aim of restoring part of the fluidity that existed before Brexit. Brussels and London thus aspire to resume the cultural and formative ties that for years united their young people, especially in the university and technical field.
In the commercial field, the agreement includes Mutual recognition of phytosanitary standards, which relieves border controls of agri -food products. However, the United Kingdom accepts a indirect supervision of the EU Court of Justice in areas where you decide to align with European regulation.
Gibraltar, outside the agreement
Despite the advances achieved, The negotiations on the future of Gibraltar, especially its possible integration in the Schengen space and border control with Spain, It has been out of the new agreement.
Both parties They have chosen to postpone this matter, aware of their political sensitivity.
