The United Kingdom and the European Union have reached a sweeping new agreement covering defense cooperation, fisheries access, and youth mobility, in what officials on both sides are calling the most significant reset in UK-EU relations since Brexit.
The deal, confirmed hours before a major EU-UK summit in London on Monday, paves the way for renewed strategic collaboration between Britain and its continental neighbours. It includes a 12-year extension for EU fishing access to UK waters, an anticipated security and defense pact, and the prospect of new opportunities for young people to live and work across borders.
Monday’s summit is the first major high-level meeting between UK and EU leaders since the July 2024 general election, which brought Labour back into power with a mandate to rebuild ties with Brussels.
“This is the culmination of enhanced contacts at the highest levels since the elections,” said Pedro Serrano, the EU’s ambassador to London. The mood on both sides appears optimistic, with officials describing the talks as constructive and forward-looking.
“With the positive signs coming from the negotiators in London in the last days and hours, the scene is now all set for a very successful and constructive reset of the relationship,” one EU diplomat noted.
Defense Pact Unlocks Access to EU Contracts
According to Reuters, a key component of the agreement is a long-sought UK-EU security and defense pact. EU officials say this opens the door for British companies to participate in large-scale European defense projects, an area previously closed off after Brexit.
“From my understanding, all member states seem to be happy with what’s put on the table,” said one EU diplomat. “There is now an ongoing written procedure to have the formal agreement of all member states, but it shouldn’t cause any problem.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to meet with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa in London to formalize the agreement. Monday’s summit is expected to mark a symbolic and practical relaunch of UK-EU cooperation.
Fishing Deal Extended Until 2038
The deal includes a 12-year agreement on fisheries — one of the most contentious issues of the Brexit process. Two EU diplomats confirmed that the new arrangement essentially rolls over the current terms, granting reciprocal access to fishing waters until June 30, 2038.
“The text as it currently reads says: ‘We note the political agreements leading to full reciprocal access to waters to fish until 30 June 2038 and extending energy co-operation on a continuous basis,’” said one diplomat.
While the deal is expected to stir domestic controversy, particularly among UK fishing communities, the government is likely to frame it as part of a wider package securing economic stability and market access for British agricultural goods into the EU.
Youth Mobility and Border Access in the Pipeline
Another element of the agreement under negotiation is a potential “youth mobility scheme” that would allow 18- to 30-year-olds to live, work, or study across borders for up to four years. Although not finalized, the Labour government has signaled openness to a “controlled” scheme — a marked shift from the previous Conservative government’s position.
Additionally, discussions continue around easing travel barriers for British citizens, including proposals to allow UK passport holders access to EU e-gates at airports. Since Brexit ended freedom of movement, UK travelers have faced longer queues and tighter restrictions, with stays in the Schengen area limited to 90 days in any 180-day period.
