Prime Minister Keir Starmer has described the UK’s vision for a deeper trading relationship with the European Union as “ambitious,” asserting that the country has psychologically moved beyond the Brexit divide.

Addressing the public ahead of a UK-EU summit, Starmer encouraged the nation to "look ahead, not behind," signalling the beginning of a new chapter in the UK’s association with the European bloc.

Following a week that saw the UK reach trade agreements with both the United States and India, Starmer outlined his intention for alignment with EU food regulations, intensified cooperation on policing, and potential backing for a structured youth mobility initiative.

This announcement marks the opening of a major political push by the government to communicate the advantages of stronger UK-EU connections. This comes amid concerns within Labour circles about how Reform UK might react to such a partnership.

EU officials have reportedly grown concerned over what they perceive as Britain's cautious stance towards a full reset of relations, a hesitance some attribute to electoral fears regarding the influence of Nigel Farage’s party.

Though initial expectations from EU sources suggested the summit might be held at Lancaster House, it will now take place at Downing Street—though officials emphasized this was always intended as a modest gathering between top UK and EU representatives. While visiting Norway aboard HMS St Albans, Starmer told the Guardian: “I’m hopeful about what we can build together. I want to strengthen our relations on defence, security, trade, and our economies.”

He continued, “Perspective is crucial, and I believe this forward-looking attitude is mutual. We need to understand the world has changed. We’re in a new phase for both trade and security.”

Commenting on global trade shifts, Starmer referenced Donald Trump’s use of tariffs, noting: “There’s a rationale behind those decisions. We must focus on reducing trade barriers with like-minded allies.”

Asked whether the public was ready for tighter EU ties post-Brexit, Starmer stated: “I believe so. People are concentrating on practical concerns—economic growth, better public services, job security. So the real question is: whose interests are guiding your decisions?”

EU diplomats had been optimistic that the summit, set for 19 May in London, might pave the way for more solid UK-EU integration.

Nonetheless, observers in Brussels are concerned that recent domestic pressures—including strong Reform UK results in local elections and criticism of the India trade deal—may dampen the UK’s readiness for deeper commitments. One diplomat said, “There's a high sensitivity about how a renewed partnership would be received in Britain.”

Business representatives have also expressed urgency, arguing that stronger EU ties are essential to counteract the economic hit from Brexit. One business leader stated, “Closer European integration just makes sense—but there’s a danger that politics might hold us back.”

Bank of England governor Andrew Bailey commented that re-establishing strong EU trade ties would be advantageous, following the new deal with the US. He highlighted the Office for Budget Responsibility’s estimate that Brexit will reduce longstanding UK productivity by 4%.

Meanwhile, ministers have shown willingness to invest in unlocking UK firms’ access to EU defence projects, said to be worth hundreds of billions. This comes despite French hesitation over fishing disputes. Defence Secretary John Healey told the BBC, “We’re ready to pay our fair share, but we also want a voice at the table while protecting UK expertise and export potential.”

Sign up to Headlines UK

Receive daily news briefs and key developments delivered each morning

after newsletter promotion

In his conversation with the Guardian, Starmer emphasized that his level-headed approach to negotiating deals with the US and India will also help secure an updated agreement with the EU.

Following his engagements, Starmer travelled to Ukraine, where he will meet with the leaders of France, Germany, and Poland—joining President Zelenskyy in affirming their joint dedication to Ukraine’s cause.

This marks the first unified visit by these European defence powers to Kyiv, aligning with calls from them and US President Donald Trump for Russia to agree to a temporary 30-day ceasefire and return to peace talks.

In contrast to previous Conservative administrations’ interactions with Brussels, Starmer said: “Our approach will be serious and pragmatic—we won’t leap to the press at every negotiation turn.”

He also showed support for Nick Thomas-Symonds, the UK minister overseeing relations with the EU, who confirmed the government is giving thought to implementing a structured youth travel agreement. “We’re pragmatists. That’s how we negotiate. We have red lines, but remain practical,” Starmer said.

However, government insiders suggest any youth scheme may only be loosely mentioned in the summit's final summary, with in-depth planning to follow at a later stage.

Starmer also pointed to possible UK alignment with EU benchmarks on food and consumer standards. “We’re not interested in reducing food quality. We’re not pursuing a race to the bottom. The British public values our high standards, and we intend to uphold them.”

The prime minister also acknowledged that the European Court of Justice would continue to play a role in managing disagreements, as it does under Rishi Sunak’s Northern Ireland protocol. He said: “The ECJ is already part of our agreements. Look at the Windsor framework—it’s a step forward that I believe is widely supported.” He reiterated the UK’s desire for deeper collaboration on policing with the bloc.

“Better cooperation is my aim. We should strive for effective data sharing,” he said. “Our engagement with Europol should allow us not just to contribute—but to lead. We have the expertise, and we should use it. The goal is maximum cooperation.”