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U.K. and EU Open ‘New Chapter’ with Sweeping Post-Brexit Deal

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Correspondent

(Worthy News) – The United Kingdom and European Union have announced a major reset in relations, signing a broad agreement that covers trade, defense, fishing rights, youth mobility, and regulatory cooperation. “We’re turning a page,” said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. “We’re opening a new chapter.”

This marks the first formal U.K.-EU summit since Brexit and reflects a sharp pivot in tone under Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s pro-EU Labour government. Starmer called the deal a “win-win,” following trade pacts with the U.S. and India in recent weeks. British officials say the agreement could boost the U.K. economy by $12 billion by 2040.

The deal will reduce border checks on food exports, grant EU fishing vessels access to U.K. waters through 2038, and allow U.K. defense firms to participate in a €150 billion EU military procurement program. It also includes plans for a youth mobility scheme and restores access for U.K. travelers to use e-gates at European airports.

Brussels sees the renewed cooperation as a necessary “normalisation” with a key defense ally amid global instability. “Better ties with Britain is a no-brainer,” said one EU diplomat, pointing to shared interests in security, energy, and migration. The deal also reflects a shift away from the tense, distrustful atmosphere that followed Brexit, particularly during past Conservative-led governments.

Still, the pact is already drawing criticism from Brexit supporters in the U.K. “We’re becoming a rule-taker from Brussels again,” said Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, calling the agreement a “surrender.” EU diplomats, however, say the terms are balanced–if not tilted slightly in their favor. One diplomat responded to a question about the fishing deal with a smiley face emoji.

While the agreement covers many sectors, much remains in principle only. Specifics on youth mobility, energy collaboration, and food trade still need to be finalized. “Let’s take it from there,” said another EU official, adding that the summit was “a good step” toward rebuilding trust and cooperation.

Despite staying outside the single market and customs union, the U.K. is now set to increase diplomatic and economic engagement with the EU. As one official noted, “Doing more business with Brussels inevitably means doing more talking.” In that regard, this deal is just the beginning.