Brussels leaders have indicated their desire for a closer partnership with the UK following Sir Keir Starmer’s election victory.
Eight years after the Brexit vote, European Council President Charles Michel emphasized the importance of the UK and Europe as “crucial partners” while congratulating the Labour leader, who has vowed not to rejoin the Customs Union during his lifetime.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky called the UK “reliable allies through thick and thin” and wished the incoming government “every success.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, one of the first to send a message, described Sir Keir as “my friend” and expressed hope for building a “progressive, fair future” with the UK.
Mr. Michel stated that Sir Keir’s election heralds a “new cycle” for the UK and looked forward to collaborating on “common challenges.”
Sir Keir has previously ruled out rejoining the European single market or customs union, with senior shadow cabinet minister Jonathan Reynolds affirming the party’s stance not to “re-open the wounds of the past.”
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her desire for a “constructive partnership” with the new Labour government.
She said, “I look forward to working with you in a constructive partnership to address common challenges and strengthen European security.”
