UK, France Forge Stronger Bilateral Defense, Migration Cooperation

(MENAFN) British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron solidified their resolve for enhanced bilateral cooperation on defense and migration during a strategic meeting held alongside the G7 summit in Canada on Monday.

The UK Prime Minister’s Office issued a statement revealing that the two leaders addressed the escalating crisis in the Middle East, underscoring the critical need to pursue peace through diplomatic channels and open dialogue. Both agreed that this approach must remain a top priority for G7 nations throughout the summit.

Turning their attention to the upcoming UK-France summit scheduled for July 11, Starmer and Macron emphasized their ambition to achieve "high-ambition outcomes" capable of delivering concrete advantages for citizens of both countries.

Migration emerged as a focal concern, with the leaders recognizing the deteriorating conditions in the English Channel. They called for innovative, coordinated strategies involving international partners to tackle the challenge effectively.

Defense and security cooperation was another key item on their agenda. The statement highlighted that both Starmer and Macron viewed the G7 forum as an important platform to intensify collaboration in these critical areas.

Regarding Ukraine, the leaders reaffirmed their steadfast commitment to securing “a just and lasting peace” while maintaining pressure on Russia.

Macron echoed these sentiments on X, advocating for a ceasefire in Ukraine and Gaza, alongside renewed negotiations concerning Iran’s nuclear program.

We examined the numerous stances that France and the United Kingdom hold on key international challenges and conflicts, Macron stated, adding that their joint efforts will continue at the London UK-France summit next month.

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