EU and UK forge historic post-Brexit agreement in London

The European Union and the United Kingdom have forged a historic agreement to redefine their post-Brexit relationship. This breakthrough occurred today, May 19, after “last-minute progress” during intensive overnight discussions preceding a summit in London.

According to Brussels officials, the United Kingdom has consented to grant EU vessels access to its fishing waters for an additional 12 years.

In what is being seen as a significant economic victory from the “reset” talks, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer successfully secured a veterinary agreement. This deal is set to dismantle a majority of the bureaucratic obstacles that have hindered British agricultural and fisheries exports to their primary market.

Confirming this development, three EU diplomats informed the FT that Brussels has relinquished its demand to tie the agri-food deal’s duration to the fisheries accord. Concurrently, British officials verified that agreements have been finalized on both fronts.

Throughout the night, both sides were deeply involved in critical negotiations, focusing on the essential components of their renewed partnership, encompassing fisheries and food trade, alongside the specific language for a proposed youth mobility program.

Prime Minister Starmer advocated for ongoing discussions regarding the youth mobility program, suggesting that concrete commitments should be deferred beyond the London summit. “Late last night, a breakthrough was made,” a British official stated.

Early Monday morning, ambassadors representing the 27 EU member states convened to approve the comprehensive package, just as leaders from EU institutions were en route to London for the formal signing.

EU diplomatic sources report that both parties have committed to “continue working” on the youth mobilization plan, with the understanding that the finer details will be ironed out in the upcoming months.

Starmer was keen to stress that this youth plan does not equate to “free movement.” He also highlighted his adherence to established negotiating red lines, reiterating the refusal to rejoin the single market or the customs union.

These decisive last-minute discussions were held in anticipation of a summit at Lancaster House on Monday morning. At this event, both the EU and UK are scheduled to sign a security and defense partnership, which will be a cornerstone of their new relationship.

The summit is expected to culminate in the signing of three key documents: the aforementioned defense and security partnership, a “geopolitical” statement that critiques the isolationist policies of US President Donald Trump, and a declaration that will define the parameters for future trade negotiations.