Lammy attends EU ministers meeting in Europe ‘reset’

He described EU and UK security as “indivisible”.

“At this time, whether it is the aggression of Russia in Ukraine, the tremendous issues and conflicts in the Middle East, or global affairs and geopolitical affairs more generally, it is hugely important the UK and Europe remain steadfast,” he said.

The Foreign Office said UK attendance at the meeting would be part of more regular engagement, with plans for closer working on international affairs.

Lammy previously said the meeting would be the start of a new “habit” of UK-EU cooperation.

The test will be whether all this moves beyond diplomatic courtesy to meaningful substance.

Borrell said the meeting would address “how we can grow together in security issues”.

“We are convinced that in these dark moments with so many challenges around the world, a strong continent, because we are part of the same continent, require a strong partnership,” he said.

The trip follows last week’s meeting between the prime minister and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen for talks in Brussels.

Sir Keir Starmer promised to offer “pragmatic, sensible leadership” as he pushed for a reset in the UK-EU relationship after the turbulence of the Conservative years.

Von der Leyen said the various post-Brexit arrangements like the Trade and Co-operation Agreement (TCA), signed in December 2020, needed to be fully implemented to move forward.