European Relations Minister Hamish Falconer has met French Minister for European Affairs Benjamin Haddad for talks on strengthening cooperation between Britain and France, boosting European security and supporting economic growth across the continent.
Falconer said:
“We discussed strengthening UK-France cooperation, boosting European security, and driving shared economic growth across the continent.”
He added that he looked forward to continuing the two countries’ close work together.
Falconer has served as Minister for Intergovernmental Relations and European Relations since July, with responsibility for UK-EU policy and relations, including the Windsor Framework.
UK and France deepening bilateral ties
The meeting comes as London and Paris continue to build on a broader programme of cooperation spanning defence, security, migration, economic resilience and new technologies.
The UK-France Leaders’ Declaration committed both countries to deeper defence and security collaboration, stronger cooperation on competitiveness and growth, and joint work in areas including artificial intelligence, critical minerals and satellite connectivity.
Both governments have also reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and cooperation through the Coalition of the Willing, while working together to counter Russian-backed threats to European security.
European security high on agenda
Falconer’s talks with Haddad took place amid continued concern over Russia’s war in Ukraine, hybrid threats and disinformation.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussed those same challenges at the UN General Assembly this week, agreeing on the need for closer UK-EU cooperation on shared European security threats.
The Government has made closer relationships with European neighbours a central part of its foreign policy, while maintaining the UK’s existing defence and security alliances.
Growth and competitiveness also central
Economic cooperation was another focus of Falconer and Haddad’s meeting.
The UK and France have previously committed to working together on “economic sectors of the future”, including AI, research and innovation, with the stated aim of supporting growth, skills and high-quality jobs in both countries.
The British Government has also said that closer European relationships should help improve trade, energy security and economic resilience. Falconer told Parliament earlier this month that deepening ties with the EU was closely connected to the Government’s work on the cost of living, energy and continental security.
Falconer signals continued engagement
The meeting is another indication of the Government’s effort to rebuild practical partnerships with key European capitals.
For Falconer, the UK-France relationship is increasingly being framed around three connected priorities: stronger European security, deeper political cooperation and economic growth that benefits both countries.
