In a significant diplomatic development, the United Kingdom and Germany have signed a comprehensive bilateral treaty aimed at enhancing cooperation in defence, trade, migration, and transportation. The new agreement signals a strategic shift in the UK’s efforts to rebuild relationships with key European partners following years of Brexit-related strain.
The treaty, known as the Kensington Treaty, was formally announced by Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz during a ceremony at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. The location was deliberately chosen for its historic links to both countries, as the museum was co-founded by Queen Victoria and her husband, Prince Albert, who was of German descent.
Chancellor Merz described the treaty as a landmark, calling it the first comprehensive bilateral accord between the UK and Germany in modern history. The deal, he said, represents a renewed commitment to cooperation at a time when Europe faces growing security and economic challenges.
“We’re dealing with serious threats to Europe’s stability right now, and this agreement allows us to face them together,” Starmer said. “This is a concrete plan, not just a statement of intent. We’ve agreed on 17 specific projects that will deliver real results for people in both of our countries.”
A Shift Toward Closer European Cooperation
Merz’s visit to the UK came shortly after French President Emmanuel Macron’s three-day state visit to Britain. The sequence of meetings points to a broader realignment among Europe’s leading powers—often referred to as the E3 alliance—as they seek to coordinate responses to shared challenges.
Both leaders acknowledged concerns about the global security landscape, particularly the threat posed by Russia’s war in Ukraine and the uncertainty surrounding the United States’ role in NATO following the re-election of Donald Trump. New tariffs imposed by the U.S. and Washington’s shifting foreign policy have prompted European leaders to prioritise regional collaboration.
Speaking at an Airbus factory in Stevenage, Chancellor Merz addressed these issues directly. While expressing regret over the UK’s exit from the European Union, he said the treaty provides a practical way forward.
“This is about pragmatic cooperation. The United Kingdom and Germany will work together as leaders and partners,” Merz said.
Defence Cooperation and Support for Ukraine
A key focus of the treaty is defence collaboration. Both countries have agreed to increase their military assistance to Ukraine, including the supply of long-range missile systems. Merz referred to this as enhancing Ukraine’s “long-range firepower,” noting that new support will be delivered in the near future.
The treaty also introduces a mutual defence clause, reinforcing both countries’ commitment to each other’s security, especially in the context of Russian aggression. German officials highlighted the importance of this provision, describing it as a crucial response to ongoing threats.
This agreement builds on a 2024 defence pact between the two nations, which included the joint development of advanced weapons systems. It also complements recent cooperation between the United Kingdom and France aimed at enhancing nuclear deterrence.
Another significant feature of the treaty is the joint promotion of defence exports. The UK and Germany will now collaborate to jointly market military equipment, such as the Typhoon Eurofighter and the Boxer armoured vehicle, to global buyers. This marks a significant policy shift for Germany, which had previously restricted certain arms sales to countries such as Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
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Broader Agreements on Transport and Migration
Beyond defence, the treaty outlines commitments in transport, trade, and immigration. The two governments plan to establish a new direct rail link between the UK and Germany, which could lead to faster travel and improved trade connections via the Channel Tunnel.
On immigration, the agreement addresses the issue of irregular migration. Germany has pledged to introduce new laws by the end of the year to criminalise the facilitation of illegal boat crossings into Britain. The legislation will give German authorities greater power to dismantle smuggling networks and seize boats used for perilous Channel crossings.
The treaty also includes provisions to expand youth mobility programs and allow frequent British travellers to use e-gates at German airports, making travel between the two countries smoother and more efficient.
Rebuilding UK-European Partnerships
For Prime Minister Starmer, the Kensington Treaty represents a significant diplomatic achievement and a step toward repairing the UK’s relationships with its closest European allies. Alongside recent agreements with France, the treaty signals a broader effort to re-establish the UK as a leading partner in European affairs.
“This is about practical action, not just politics,” Starmer said. “We are creating real solutions that will benefit people in both countries while preparing for the challenges of an increasingly complex world.”
Both sides view the treaty as a long-term foundation for future cooperation, with plans to build upon it as Europe continues to navigate political and security uncertainties.
