British Prime Minister Keir Starmer visited Ireland on Saturday to meet with Irish counterpart Simon Harris in an effort to improve relations between the two countries following the U.K.’s exit from the European Union. This visit marked the first time a British leader had visited Ireland in five years, signaling a desire to strengthen ties on economic and security issues. Harris was the first international leader to visit Starmer after his party’s election victory on July 4.
After their meeting at Farmleigh House in Dublin, Starmer expressed the importance of resetting the relationship between the U.K. and Ireland. The strained relations stemmed from the U.K.’s decision to leave the EU in 2016, which had implications for Northern Ireland as a part of the U.K. Starmer emphasized the intention to have a summit by March to demonstrate progress, with annual summits to follow.
Starmer highlighted the significance of solidifying relations with both Ireland and the EU, despite not seeking to rejoin the EU under his leadership. Instead, he aims to renegotiate aspects of the post-Brexit trade deal with the EU to stimulate growth and reduce trade friction. The economic ties between the two countries are substantial, amounting to around 120 billion euros and supporting numerous jobs.
The leaders engaged in a business roundtable discussion to explore the potential benefits of a reset in relations for trade. Subsequently, they attended a soccer match between Ireland and England in Dublin, using the opportunity for a friendly exchange of jerseys. Harris, who recently took office, emphasized the friendly competition between the two nations and the commitment to further cooperation.
As both leaders embraced the sporting spirit, Starmer jokingly mentioned wearing the Irish jersey at his next soccer match in North London. The visit concluded with a gesture of goodwill and a mutual understanding of the necessity to strengthen ties between the U.K., Ireland, and the EU.
