In a meeting held at the European Political Community summit in Blenheim Palace, UK, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed their commitment to enhancing relations between the two nations on crucial issues such as defense, security, and cross-Channel migration. The leaders also reaffirmed their support for Ukraine amidst escalating tensions with Russia.

During their one-to-one talks, Prime Minister Starmer and President Macron vowed to work together in addressing irregular migration and revitalizing their defense partnership. Prime Minister Starmer, in an article published in French newspaper Le Monde prior to the meeting, acknowledged that while the United Kingdom is no longer an EU member, there are still numerous areas where collaboration remains essential. He referred to the G7 group, the UN Security Council, and NATO as key platforms where the two countries continue to cooperate.

Recognizing Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Prime Minister Starmer condemned President Vladimir Putin's decision, emphasizing the need to confront this aggression unitedly. He wrote, "I never thought, in my lifetime, that I would hear the rumble of war echoing across Europe. I never thought a leader would choose such an absurd and destructive path. And yet, Russian President Vladimir Putin made this choice. Our determination to face it must never waver."

President Macron reciprocated Prime Minister Starmer's outreach, describing the UK Prime Minister's recent election as a "great opportunity for a reset." As dozens of leaders gathered at the summit to reaffirm their support for Ukraine, Prime Minister Starmer emphasized the significance of standing together against aggression. He underlined the threat that Russia poses to Europe and stressed the need to unite behind shared values.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, a key guest at the meeting, expressed appreciation for the support from the UK and other European nations during this challenging period. He stressed the importance of maintaining unity within Europe, stating that it leads to strong decisions.

Prime Minister Starmer also addressed the issue of cross-Channel migration, acknowledging the complexities involved. While his government has abandoned plans to expel asylum-seekers to Rwanda, measures to control arrivals from France are still being sought. He emphasized the need to tackle the criminal organizations exploiting vulnerable individuals and vowed to work closely with France and other European partners to resolve this crisis, prioritizing respect for international law.

Furthermore, Prime Minister Starmer reassured that the UK would continue to uphold the European Convention on Human Rights, a commitment that the previous government had contemplated leaving.

The meeting between Prime Minister Starmer and President Macron highlights their shared determination to strengthen bilateral cooperation, stand against aggression, and address pressing issues affecting both nations and the wider region.

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