Negotiators from the European Union and the United Kingdom have reached an agreement to “restart” their relations following Brexit, according to several diplomats. The deal is expected to be formalized during a summit in London on May 19, where UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer will host EU leaders.
EU member states have given the green light to three key documents that are set to be signed at the summit:
- a Partnership for Security and Defence,
- a Declaration of Solidarity between the EU and the UK,
- and a Bilateral Understanding covering issues including trade, fishing, and youth mobility.
Negotiations reportedly extended late into Sunday night as both sides worked to resolve critical points, with fishing rights remaining the most sensitive topic.
Under the final agreement, the UK will keep its waters open to European fishermen for 12 years after the current deal expires in 2026. In return, the EU will provide indefinite easing of import regulations on food products from the UK.
Regarding youth mobility—a contentious issue as the UK fears it could lead to a return of freedom of movement between the EU and the UK—negotiators reportedly reached broad consensus on the main points.
The UK officially left the EU on February 1, 2020, following a 2016 referendum where 51.89% of voters chose Brexit.
