Following a meeting of the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement Partnership Council, UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron and European Commission Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič delivered a joint statement on 16 May 2024.
This statement underscored the deep-rooted cooperation between the UK and European Union amidst challenges to European peace. The discussions, ranging from citizens’ rights to trade and climate cooperation, highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties and address key issues post-Brexit.
Commitments to Cooperation
The United Kingdom and the European Union reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation and mutual respect in a recent series of meetings that addressed critical issues impacting the relationship between the two entities.
The joint statement, delivered by UK Foreign Secretary Lord Cameron and European Commission Executive Vice-President Maroš Šefčovič, highlighted the ongoing efforts to maintain strong ties and address key challenges post-Brexit.
The meetings, held on 16 May 2024, included sessions of the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee and the Trade and Cooperation Agreement Partnership Council. These discussions were crucial in assessing the progress of various agreements and frameworks established between the UK and the European Union.
Citizens’ Rights and the Windsor Framework
One of the key focuses of the meetings was the implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, particularly in relation to citizens’ rights and the Windsor Framework. Both parties reiterated their commitment to ensuring the full implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement, emphasizing the importance of finding solutions to outstanding issues.
The restoration of political institutions in Northern Ireland was also noted, with discussions highlighting the progress made under the Windsor Framework.
Trade and Cooperation Agreement
The Partnership Council took stock of progress in implementing the Trade and Cooperation Agreement, noting achievements such as the association of the UK to Horizon Europe and Copernicus. Both sides also discussed upcoming negotiations on the competition cooperation agreement and called for regular exchange of information on market surveillance of non-food products.
Climate, Energy, and Health Security
Discussions also included cooperation on new technologies to facilitate the green transition, with commitments made to work towards a working group on security of supply.
The co-chairs also discussed recent UK measures in the area of fisheries and the European Union raised access to waters post-2026. Strengthened cooperation between the European Centre for Disease Control and the UK Health Security Agency was also called for.
Security and Law Enforcement
Progress in the area of security, including work on counter-terrorism and cyber, was noted. Commitments in respect of law enforcement and judicial cooperation under the Trade and Cooperation Agreement were discussed, with agreements to progress technical work to allow for automated searching of vehicle registration data.
In Conclusion
The joint statement reflects the ongoing efforts of the United Kingdom and European Union to maintain a cooperative relationship across a wide range of issues. As both parties navigate the complexities of post-Brexit arrangements, these meetings serve as a testament to their commitment to finding common ground and working together towards shared goals.
By continuing to engage in constructive dialogue and finding mutually beneficial solutions, the United Kingdom and European Union can build a strong and enduring partnership that serves the interests of both parties and promotes stability and prosperity in the region.
Sources: THX News, Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office & The Rt Hon Lord Cameron.
