Lammy: We are determined to defend European security

(Patria) - In this crucial period, the United Kingdom is joining the European Union's foreign ministers in high-level Gymnich talks to be held in Poland, with a visit to the Western Balkans also planned.

A new era of UK-EU security and defence relations will be at the top of the agenda, as will support for Ukraine. Strengthening the UK's security partnership with Europe will deliver on the government's Plan for Change by enhancing our national security.

The UK continues its engagement with Europe, underscoring the need for a new, ambitious security relationship, with the Foreign Secretary attending the Gymnich meeting of senior EU officials in Poland (May 7).

In discussions on foreign affairs, David Lammy will stress that closer security and defence cooperation is in the interests of both the UK and the EU, and will discuss uniting across the continent to secure a just and lasting peace in Ukraine.

Lammy, who was the first British Foreign Secretary to attend an official meeting of EU foreign ministers after Brexit in October, has been building the foundations for even stronger ties with Europe since taking office.

Following leader-level talks held on April 24 in London between the British Prime Minister and the President of the European Commission, he will continue to advocate for a long-term strategic partnership between the UK and the EU that will support economic growth, protect citizens, and bolster European collective security and defence.

The meeting takes place ahead of the UK-EU summit (May 19) which will cover a range of issues concerning the UK and the EU as we work to foster a stable and positive, forward-looking relationship.

“We are working hard, side-by-side with our European allies to build a safer, more secure and more prosperous Europe. Together, we stand firm against aggression, defend our shared values and work towards lasting peace. Faced with Russian aggression, the eastern flank of NATO has never been more important. We are determined to defend European security.

As we mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, this commitment reminds us that our shared defence of freedom and peace in Europe remains as crucial today as it was eight decades ago.”

As part of his trip, the Foreign Secretary is visiting Bosnia and Herzegovina. During his visit, he met with political leaders to emphasize the UK's support for domestic efforts to respond to the ongoing political crisis, including through the formation of a new state-level coalition focused on Euro-Atlantic integration.

The Minister will also visit an EUFOR military base, which plays a crucial role in maintaining security in Bosnia and Herzegovina, thereby contributing to regional stability.

Continued instability in the region carries the risk of a return to violence and is a threat to our collective security, including through irregular migration and serious and organised crime.