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The recent EU-UK summit marks a crucial moment in the relationship between the European Union and the United Kingdom. According to François-Joseph Schichan, a former French diplomat and political adviser to the French Ambassador in the UK, the EU needs to anchor the UK to its security interests, priorities, and values. Schichan argues that the Brexit chapter in the EU-UK relationship is far from over, with some EU member countries and officials still perceiving Brexit as an existential threat to the European project.
The wounds of Brexit run deep, and some European officials still demand that the UK pay the price for leaving the EU. However, Schichan believes that the EU should abandon its confrontational approach and instead work towards building a strong, ambitious, and long-term partnership with the UK. “The UK is an indispensable partner for our continent’s defense and security,” Schichan writes. “Our defense supply chains are intertwined… There’s no credible European defense without the UK.”
A strong partnership between the EU and the UK would make both parties more prosperous and secure, sending a signal to allies and foes alike about their determination to remain united. With the US turning away from Europe, the continent needs to pull together to ensure its own security in the face of Russia’s threat. Schichan suggests that the EU-UK reconciliation should start with an ambitious security pact, allowing the UK to contribute to EU defense programs and cooperate on Ukraine.
The EU and the UK face common challenges, including the spread of populism and the need for de-risking and reducing dependencies. By working together, they can build a more resilient and secure partnership. As Schichan notes, “It’s about time we closed the book on Brexit.” A change of mindset is necessary on the EU side, and the UK needs to play its part and fulfill its commitments. With a strong partnership, the EU and the UK can address outstanding issues, such as fisheries and trade, and build a brighter future for both parties [1].