The UK Government will today (Monday 14 October) signal its
ambition to engage more closely with the EU on foreign affairs as
the Foreign Secretary joins counterparts in
Luxembourg.
Taking a seat at the table of the Foreign Affairs Council with
all 27 EU Foreign Ministers, the talks will focus on the main
challenges facing European security. This will include
discussions on how the UK and EU can work together to tackle
continued Russian aggression and interference across the
continent, as well as the escalating crisis in the Middle East,
including the ongoing threat posed by Iran.
The trip, at the invitation of Josep Borrell, EU High
Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, follows
the Prime Minister's recent visit to Brussels where he committed
to move beyond Brexit and make the UK's relationship with the EU
work for the British people.
UK attendance at the meeting will be part of more regular
engagement, with plans for closer working on international
affairs and to strengthen the UK-EU partnership on security
matters to be set out after discussions with Josep Borrell
in Luxembourg to deliver for Britons and our fellow
Europeans.
Foreign Secretary
said:
“UK security is indivisible from European security. This
government is determined to reset our relationships and deepen
ties with our European partners in order to make us all
safer.
“This visit is an opportunity for the UK to be back at the
table, discussing the most pressing global issues with our
closest neighbours and tackle the seismic challenges we all
face.”
The Foreign Secretary's attendance will highlight the importance
of the UK working side-by-side with the European Union on foreign
policy issues.
Ukraine is a prime example of how UK-EU collaboration makes a
tangible impact. Joint sanctions depriving Russia of hundreds of
billions of pounds; coordinated training of Ukrainian troops
providing them with the skills they need, and working together on
humanitarian support to target those most in
need.
Notes to editors:
- The Foreign Secretary will later travel on to the
International Investment Summit
