Sánchez and Starmer to Sign Historic Bilateral Agreement in London

Pedro Sánchez, the head of the Spanish Government, and Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, are set to meet in London on Wednesday to finalize a significant bilateral agreement aimed at enhancing strategic cooperation between Spain and the United Kingdom across various sectors. This meeting at 10 Downing Street marks Sánchez's first official visit to a British Prime Minister since he took office in 2018. Although he has visited the UK four times during his presidency, this marks the first meeting at the British Prime Minister's residence. Past leaders including Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, and Rishi Sunak had not coincided with an official meeting with Sánchez during his term. Sánchez previously met Starmer briefly during the July 2024 European Political Community summit in the UK. Their last phone conversation occurred on July 11, coinciding with the announcement of a new agreement governing relations between Gibraltar and the EU, which is significant in the context of Brexit. The upcoming discussions are particularly timely, as they follow the recent conclusion of the agreement between Spain, the UK, and the EU regarding Gibraltar's status post-Brexit. The final text of this agreement is currently being finalized in Brussels, with hopes for ratification in December. If timelines are adhered to, it is anticipated that the physical border crossing separating La Línea de la Concepción from Gibraltar may be dismantled in January, removing barriers for both people and goods. Beyond the specifics of Gibraltar, Sánchez and Starmer intend to strengthen economic and commercial ties, emphasizing the unexploited potential for growth in their bilateral relationship, which has remained robust despite Brexit. In 2024 alone, Spain exported goods worth €238 billion to the UK while importing goods valued at €10 billion, establishing Spain as the second-largest supplier of services to the UK, only surpassed by the United States. Both leaders plan to discuss various pressing topics during their meeting, including migration, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the Middle East situation. Starmer's intention to recognize Palestine as a state is among the issues on the agenda. Additionally, a memorandum will be signed to enhance economic relations and promote business initiatives between the two countries. Recognizing the importance of business collaboration, a roundtable discussion featuring representatives from both nations' companies will be held, led by the respective Ministers of Economy, Carlos Cuerpo and Rachel Reeves, with Sánchez and Starmer attending towards the end of the event. The outcome of this visit and the signing of the bilateral agreement signal a commitment from both governments to enhance their partnership in light of recent geopolitical shifts. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2