Last week, the European Union’s diplomatic corps made a notable return to London for the first U.K.-EU summit since the much-debated exit from the EU. The atmosphere at this significant gathering was characterized by a peculiar blend of polite forgetfulness and underlying distrust, all presented alongside a rather optimistic perspective on cooperation.
A mix of old and new dynamics
Keir Starmer, leader of the opposition, was keen to project an image of unity, despite his past remarks regarding the Brexit referendum. With a smile evidently reminiscent of a politician who has just been informed of favorable public opinion, he welcomed Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, to Lancaster House, a venue that reflects both the grace and the turmoil of British politics.
The EU delegation arrived with their familiar assortment of detailed proposals and diplomatic niceties, while the British side responded with warm beverages and carefully measured expressions, alluding to a so-called “common understanding” about sovereignty and control.
Negotiations and public reactions
Both sides emerged from the discussions claiming victories, particularly in areas such as youth mobility and food exports, which were touted as significant yet ultimately vague agreements. Essentially, the U.K. conceded to allow French fishing boats access to certain areas of the Channel for a specified period, conditioned by a reciprocal arrangement regarding cheese exports to Belgium.
“The end of the fishing industry,” is how Nigel Farage, prominent Brexit supporter, criticized the outcomes, while former Prime Minister Boris Johnson branded it a betrayal of the Brexit cause.
As the summit drew to a close, attendees partook in the customary rituals of politics—formal statements, posed photographs, and a mixed bag of public messaging that seemed to convey a great deal while revealing little. The sentiment echoed in the joint press release, which managed to reflect the complexities of the negotiations, leaving many observers with more questions than answers.
As the dust settles from this summit, the political landscape remains as intricate as ever, with anticipation already building for the next round of discussions.
CAPTION COMPETITION
“Do you really think they bought our deal?” If you have a better suggestion, share it via email or reach out on social media.
Last week, we shared a photo for captioning:
Thank you to all who participated! Here’s our favorite response from the submissions: “Your Holiness, do you have the Almighty’s phone number for me? Pete and I want to make a new Signal group and, instead of a reporter, we want to add God to it.”