The Prime Minister will travel to Brussels today to continue his
drive to improve the UK's relationship with the European Union to
bolster the security, safety and prosperity of the British
people.
Building on the extensive and positive engagement which has taken
place already, he will discuss his ambitions for the next few
months with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen,
European Council President Charles Michel and President of the
European Parliament Roberta Metsola.
The Prime Minister has set out his determination to move beyond
Brexit and make the UK's relationship with the EU work for the
British people, and he remains focused on delivering a
broad-based security pact, securing our borders and tackling
barriers to trade.
He will say that at a time of growing instability in the world –
with wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as the rise of
vile smuggling gangs trafficking people across Europe – it is
increasingly important that like-minded countries co-operate more
closely on areas of shared interest.
While he wants talks to deliver ambitious and improved
co-operation with EU leaders, he has been clear there will be no
return to the single market, the customs union or freedom of
movement.
Prime Minister said:
“The UK is undeniably stronger when it works in lockstep with
its closest international partners. This has never been more
important - with war, conflict and insecurity all knocking on
Europe's door.
“We will only be able to tackle these challenges by putting
our collective weight behind them, which is why I am so
determined to put the Brexit years behind us and establish a more
pragmatic and mature relationship with the European Union.
“Better co-operation with the EU will deliver the benefits
the British people deserve – securing our borders, keeping us
safe and boosting economic growth.”
