British Prime Minister Keir Starmer emphasizes the need to intensify cooperation with the EU in the field of defense, including through the SAFE program, in the context of European rearmament.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer stated that the United Kingdom needs to collaborate more closely with the European Union in the field of defense, highlighting the importance of joint initiatives such as the SAFE program, aimed at supporting military equipment. These statements were made upon his return from China and underline the urgent need for rearmament in Europe. Negotiations for the UK's participation in SAFE have stalled due to the financial contribution requested, deemed excessive by the British government. Starmer emphasized that it is essential to do more together in defense matters, suggesting an analysis of how the UK can collaborate more effectively with the EU. He also ruled out a return to the customs union but left open the possibility of a closer alignment with the rules of the European single market. Meanwhile, negotiations continue for a youth mobility program and for the UK's integration into the ERASMUS program from 2027.