UK, Germany Sign Treaty to Enhance Defence & Migration Cooperation
In a significant move to strengthen ties between the two nations, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz signed a historic treaty on Thursday, marking a new era of cooperation in defence, economy, and migration. The 80-year-old treaty, signed on July 16, 2025, aims to boost defence cooperation, tackle migrant smuggling, and establish a new direct rail connection to foster economic and people-to-people ties.
The signing of the treaty comes at a time when both countries are facing complex global challenges, including rising tensions in Eastern Europe, a surge in migrant crossings, and climate change. By deepening their partnership, the UK and Germany are sending a strong message of unity and commitment to addressing these challenges together.
The treaty, officially known as the “UK-Germany Friendship Treaty,” is a comprehensive agreement that covers a range of areas, including:
- Defence Cooperation: The treaty aims to enhance defence cooperation between the two nations, including the sharing of intelligence, joint military exercises, and the development of new defence technologies. This cooperation will help to strengthen the security of both countries and contribute to global stability.
- Migration and Border Control: The treaty includes plans to jointly tackle migrant smuggling and strengthen border control measures. This will involve the sharing of best practices, increased cooperation on border security, and the development of new technologies to track and deter illegal migration.
- Economy and Trade: The treaty aims to boost economic ties between the UK and Germany, including the establishment of a new direct rail connection between the two countries. This will help to increase trade and investment between the UK and Germany, creating new job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.
- Climate Change and Sustainability: The treaty includes provisions for cooperation on climate change and sustainability, including the development of new green technologies, the promotion of sustainable energy sources, and the implementation of joint climate change mitigation strategies.
The signing of the treaty was welcomed by both Prime Minister Starmer and Chancellor Merz, who hailed it as a major milestone in UK-German relations. “Today, we are taking a significant step forward in our friendship and partnership,” said Prime Minister Starmer. “This treaty demonstrates our commitment to working together to address the challenges of our time and to building a more secure and prosperous future for our citizens.”
Chancellor Merz echoed Prime Minister Starmer’s sentiments, saying: “The UK-Germany Friendship Treaty is a testament to the strength and resilience of our relationship. We are proud to be signing this treaty, which will enhance our cooperation in defence, economy, and migration, and help us to tackle the complex challenges we face together.”
The signing of the treaty is a significant development in UK-German relations, which have been strained in recent years due to differences over Brexit and other issues. The treaty demonstrates the commitment of both countries to strengthening their partnership and working together to address global challenges.
In conclusion, the UK-Germany Friendship Treaty is a major milestone in the history of UK-German relations, marking a new era of cooperation and partnership between the two nations. The treaty’s provisions for defence cooperation, migration and border control, economy and trade, and climate change and sustainability will help to strengthen the security and prosperity of both countries, and contribute to global stability and cooperation.
Source:
